Elliptical orbit/ determine speed & potential energy

In summary, Jupiter has its greatest speed, gravitational force, and acceleration when it is closest to the Sun in its elliptical orbit. Its greatest potential energy is when it is farthest from the Sun, as potential energy is proportional to the distance between the masses. The magnitude of its acceleration is not constant, but rather has maximum and minimum values depending on the distance between the masses. This can be calculated using the equations for gravitational force, velocity, acceleration, and potential energy.
  • #1
YMMMA
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Homework Statement


True statements about Jupiter as it moves in its elliptical orbit around the Sun include which o the following?
I. It has its greatest speed when closest to the Sun.
II. It has its greatest potential energy when farthest from the Sun.
III. The magnitude of its acceleration is constant.

Homework Equations


Gravitational force Fg = GMm/r^2, where M is the mass of sun, m is the mass of jupiter, and r is the distance between the two masses.

Velocity v= √GM/r

Acceleration due to gravity a = GM/r^2

Gravitational potential energy = mass * acceleration due to gravity * height

The Attempt at a Solution


The closest it is from the sun the greater the speed, gravitational force, and acceleration. So, as the distance decreases, the Fg, a, and v increase.
I correct
II gravitational potential energy is proportional to the height and so it is proportional to the distance between the masses, the fathest it is the greater the potential energy.
III it’s not constant it has maximum and minimum values depending on the distance between the masses.

Is there something I misunderstood?
 
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  • #2
I'd say you were correct on all counts.
 
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1. What is an elliptical orbit?

An elliptical orbit is a type of orbit in which an object follows an elliptical path around another object due to the force of gravity. This type of orbit is typically seen in celestial bodies such as planets and moons.

2. How is the speed of an object in an elliptical orbit determined?

The speed of an object in an elliptical orbit is determined by its distance from the object it is orbiting and the strength of the gravitational force between the two objects. The closer the object is to the larger object, the faster it will travel, and vice versa.

3. What factors affect the speed of an object in an elliptical orbit?

The speed of an object in an elliptical orbit is affected by the mass and distance of the objects involved, as well as any external forces acting on the object, such as the gravitational pull of other objects.

4. How is potential energy related to an object in an elliptical orbit?

Potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position or configuration. In an elliptical orbit, the potential energy of an object is highest at the furthest point from the object it is orbiting and lowest at the closest point. As the object moves through its orbit, this potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.

5. Can an object in an elliptical orbit have a constant speed?

Yes, an object in an elliptical orbit can have a constant speed. However, this speed will vary depending on the object's position in its orbit, as discussed in question 2. The speed will be highest at the closest point to the object it is orbiting and lowest at the furthest point.

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