Solving Elliptical Orbit Homework: Comet's Semi-Major Axis & Sun Distance

AI Thread Summary
To solve for the semi-major axis of a comet's orbit with a 100-year period and a closest approach of 0.37 AU, Kepler's Third Law can be applied, which relates the orbital period and semi-major axis. The equation (T1/T2)^2 = (s1/s2)^3 can be used, where T is the period and s is the semi-major axis. By substituting known values, the semi-major axis can be calculated. The maximum distance from the sun can also be determined using the semi-major axis and the closest approach. Understanding Kepler's laws is essential for solving this type of orbital mechanics problem.
myoplex11
Messages
45
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


The period of a comet orbit is 100 years. As its closests approach is 0.37 AU from the sun. What is the semi-major axis of the comet's orbit? How far does it get from the sun?


Homework Equations



(T1/T2)^2 = (s1/s2)^3

The Attempt at a Solution


I don't even know where to begin with this problem any help would be really appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi myoplex,

myoplex11 said:

Homework Statement


The period of a comet orbit is 100 years. As its closests approach is 0.37 AU from the sun. What is the semi-major axis of the comet's orbit? How far does it get from the sun?


Homework Equations



(T1/T2)^2 = (s1/s2)^3

The Attempt at a Solution


I don't even know where to begin with this problem any help would be really appreciated.

What does Kepler's laws have to say about periods and semi-major axis?
 
Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'

Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'

In this question, I have a question. I am NOT trying to solve it, but it is just a conceptual question. Consider the point on the rod, which connects the string and the rod. My question: just before and after the collision, is ANGULAR momentum CONSERVED about this point? Lets call the point which connects the string and rod as P. Why am I asking this? : it is clear from the scenario that the point of concern, which connects the string and the rod, moves in a circular path due to the string...
View full post »
Thread 'A cylinder connected to a hanged mass'

Thread 'A cylinder connected to a hanged mass'

Let's declare that for the cylinder, mass = M = 10 kg Radius = R = 4 m For the wall and the floor, Friction coeff = ##\mu## = 0.5 For the hanging mass, mass = m = 11 kg First, we divide the force according to their respective plane (x and y thing, correct me if I'm wrong) and according to which, cylinder or the hanging mass, they're working on. Force on the hanging mass $$mg - T = ma$$ Force(Cylinder) on y $$N_f + f_w - Mg = 0$$ Force(Cylinder) on x $$T + f_f - N_w = Ma$$ There's also...
View full post »

Similar threads

Semi major axis - planetary Science
Replies
1
Views
1K
A comet at its closest approach to the Sun
Replies
1
Views
2K
Effective cross-section of catching a comet with the Sun
Replies
19
Views
2K
Effective cross-section of catching a comet with the Sun
Replies
1
Views
2K
Investigating Comet 67P's Elliptical Orbit
Replies
3
Views
2K
What is the R^3 in Kepler's 3rd Law?
Replies
7
Views
2K
Comet Elliptical Orbits Question
Replies
6
Views
8K
Comet on a parabolic orbit around the Sun
Replies
5
Views
3K
Elliptical orbit/ determine speed & potential energy
Replies
1
Views
1K
How Do You Calculate the Semi-Major Axis of a New Elliptical Orbit?
Replies
7
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top