How Do You Calculate the Velocity of a Comet at Different Points in Its Orbit?

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To calculate the velocity of a comet at different points in its orbit, one must apply the principles of conservation of energy and angular momentum. The comet's speed at its closest approach to the Sun, denoted as v1, can be related to its speed at a later distance, v2, using the distances r1 and r2 and the angle θ between r2 and the velocity vector. The conservation of mechanical energy states that the total energy remains constant, allowing for the calculation of v2 based on the initial conditions. Additionally, the conservation of angular momentum can provide further insights into the comet's motion. Understanding these principles is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
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Velocity of coment?? help please

Homework Statement



A certain comet of mass m at its closest approach to the Sun is observed to be at a distance r1 from the center of the Sun, moving with speed v1. At a later time the comet is observed to be at a distance r2 from the center of the Sun, and the angle between r2 and the velocity vector is measured to be θ. What is v2? For example, if a variable g is used in the question, type g. Use theta for θ, r_1 for r1, r_2 for r2, v_1 for v1 and m as needed.

pic is attached so you can see what I am looking at as well.

im completely stuck don't even know where to begin!
 

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Hi fball558! :wink:

(eughh … why is v1 in your diagram pointing up? )

Hint: conservation of … ? :smile:
 

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