Question about the Kepler equation

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around deriving a specific value related to the Kepler equation, particularly focusing on the relationship between the parameters in the equation of an orbit. The original poster presents an equation involving variables such as r, a, b, e, and θ.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to manipulate the orbit equation by substituting for r and expresses uncertainty about how to proceed after their initial substitution. Other participants suggest rearranging the equation and substituting for different variables, while also expressing a desire to guide without revealing complete solutions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring various manipulations of the equation. Some guidance has been provided regarding rearranging terms and substitutions, but there is no explicit consensus on the next steps or the final outcome.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework rules, which may limit the extent of assistance provided. There is an indication of confusion regarding the substitutions and the manipulation of the equation, highlighting the complexity of the problem.

Clara Chung
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Homework Statement


59.png


Homework Equations


1/r = a/b2 * (1+e cosθ)

The Attempt at a Solution


How do you derive 7.27?
I tried to substitute r in the orbit equation by (acosψ - ae) / cosθ and got
(cos ψ - e)/cosθ*(1+e cosθ)=b^2/a^2 I don't know what to do next. Please help, thank you.
 

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Clara Chung said:
(cos ψ - e)/cosθ*(1+e cosθ)=b^2/a^2
I believe this is OK. You just need to manipulate it to get (7.27). I don't know the quickest way, but I found something that works. I don't want to give too much away.
Rearrange your equation as (cos ψ - e)*(1+e cosθ)=(b^2/a^2)*cosθ. Substitute for b^2/a^2 in terms of e. Multiply everything out and see if you can get to the result.
 
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I tried hard by substituting (b^2/a^2) but still can't figure out the equation... Then I changed my mind to substitute for e. Thank you so much.
(cos ψ - e)*(1+e cosθ)=(b^2/a^2)*cosθ

(ecos ψ - 1+b^2/a^2)*(1+e cosθ)=(b^2/a^2)*cosθ*e

-(1-ecosψ)(1+ecosθ)+(b^2/a^2)e cosθ+(b^2/a^2)=(b^2/a^2)*cosθ*e

(1-ecosψ)(1+ecosθ)=(b^2/a^2)
 
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Nice.
 

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