Elliptical Orbit Homework: Find Angular Momentum

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving a comet's angular momentum in an elliptical orbit around the sun. The problem provides specific parameters such as the mass of the comet, its distance from the sun at perihelion, and its linear velocity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the definition of angular momentum and discuss the components involved in its calculation. There is an attempt to clarify the relationship between the variables involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking to understand the basic definition and calculation of angular momentum. Some guidance has been offered regarding the multiplication of relevant quantities, but no consensus or complete method has emerged yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants have noted a lack of initial equations or definitions provided in the problem statement, which may affect the clarity of the discussion.

missnuss
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Homework Statement


A comet of mass 5x10^16 kg moves in an elliptical orbit around the sun, with the sun at one focus. At the perihelion, 10^6 m, the comet has a linear velocity of 1.5x10^7 m/s. Find the angular momentum of the comet with respect to a focus at the sun.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

Ya, I have nothing except 0<e<1, Vmin<E<0
 
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How about: What's the definition of angular momentum?
 
Ok. So basically you multiply the three together? Sorry if I am slow.
 
missnuss said:
Ok. So basically you multiply the three together? Sorry if I am slow.
Yes. -- I mean yes to multiplying them together.

I have no idea about you're being slow or not.
 

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