Why does planets hav eliptical orbits

In summary, planets have elliptical orbits due to the balance between the force of gravity and the planet's velocity, as described by Kepler's laws of planetary motion. This shape is determined by a planet's distance from the sun and its velocity, with closer planets having more circular orbits and farther planets having more elliptical orbits. While all planets in our solar system have elliptical orbits, the degree of ellipticity varies with some planets having more circular orbits than others. A planet's orbit can change over time, but this change is gradual and can take thousands or even millions of years. Having an elliptical orbit allows a planet to experience varying distances from the sun, leading to diverse environments and contributing to the stability of a planetary system.
  • #1
vivinisaac
9
0
why does planets hav eliptical orbits (pls explain -not mathematically if posssible)
 
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  • #3
If you mean as opposed to a circular orbit, a circle is a special case of an ellipse.
 

1. Why do planets have elliptical orbits?

Planets have elliptical orbits due to the gravitational pull of the sun. According to Kepler's laws of planetary motion, planets follow an elliptical path around the sun because of the balance between the force of gravity and the planet's velocity.

2. What causes planets to have elliptical orbits?

The shape of a planet's orbit is determined by its distance from the sun and its velocity. If a planet is closer to the sun, it will have a higher velocity and a more circular orbit. However, if a planet is farther from the sun, it will have a lower velocity and a more elliptical orbit.

3. Do all planets have elliptical orbits?

Yes, all planets in our solar system have elliptical orbits. However, some planets have more circular orbits than others. For example, Mercury and Pluto have more elliptical orbits compared to Earth and Venus, which have more circular orbits.

4. Can a planet's orbit change from elliptical to circular?

Yes, a planet's orbit can change over time due to various factors such as gravitational interactions with other planets or external objects. However, this change is usually gradual and can take thousands or even millions of years.

5. What are the advantages of having an elliptical orbit?

An elliptical orbit allows a planet to have varying distances from the sun, which can affect its temperature and seasons. It also allows for more diverse environments and can contribute to the stability of a planetary system.

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