Relating Distance and Speed for orbits

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around relating the distances from the sun of two comets to their speeds, specifically exploring how one might calculate the speed of one comet based on the known speed of another and their respective distances. The scope includes theoretical considerations and potential applications of orbital mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests using the known speed of one comet and its distance from the sun to find the speed of another comet.
  • Another participant proposes Kepler's third law as a potential framework for this relationship.
  • It is noted by a participant that the relationship may depend on whether the comets are in similar orbits.
  • A further comment indicates that the calculation would be straightforward if the comets are confirmed to be in the same orbit.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the conditions required to relate the speeds of the comets, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of the relationship.

astros10
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Given just the distances from the sun of two comets for example, and the speed of one of the objects, how could one relate these two objects in order to find the speed the other object is traveling at?
 
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Keplers third law?
 
It depends, are the comets in simular orbits?
 
If the comets are in the same orbit.
 

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