Proving Elliptical Trajectory Acceleration Vector Passes Through Focus

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The discussion centers on proving that the acceleration vector of a particle following an elliptical trajectory, defined by the equations x = a cos(pt) and y = b sin(pt), passes through the focus of the ellipse. The position vector is differentiated twice, yielding an acceleration vector of a = -p²r, which points towards the center of the coordinate system rather than the focus. Participants emphasize the need for the correct equations to demonstrate this relationship, suggesting a connection to Kepler's first law of planetary motion.

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If a particle's trajectory is defined by the law x=acos[pt] and y=bsin[pt] where t is parameter of time then we have to prove that it's acceleration vector passes through the focus of the conic----ellipse in this case as can be clearly seen.
If we write out the position vector in the vector notation and differentiate twice we get a=-p2r and this clearly is directed towards the centre of the axes system and not the focus.Any ideas?
 
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aim1732 said:
If we write out the position vector in the vector notation and differentiate twice we get a=-p2r and this clearly is directed towards the centre of the axes system and not the focus.
Correct.

Any ideas?
Ideas regarding what? I assume you are trying to prove Kepler's first law. The given equation does not describe a planet's motion. You need to find the right equation.
 
have to prove that it's acceleration vector passes through the focus of the conic----ellipse in this case as can be clearly seen.

I meant this.
 

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