Why is maximum orbital acceleration greatest at periapsis?

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SUMMARY

The maximum orbital acceleration occurs at periapsis due to the dominance of centripetal acceleration at this point. While tangential acceleration is maximized at 90 degrees, the combined effect of centripetal acceleration at periapsis results in a greater overall acceleration. The relationship between force and acceleration, as described by Newton's second law (F = ma), clarifies that the net force acting on the object is greatest at periapsis, leading to maximum acceleration. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for analyzing orbital mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics
  • Familiarity with Newton's laws of motion
  • Knowledge of centripetal and tangential acceleration
  • Basic grasp of gravitational forces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of orbital mechanics in detail
  • Learn about the mathematical derivation of centripetal acceleration
  • Explore the effects of gravitational forces on orbital paths
  • Investigate the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration in various contexts
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Aerospace engineers, physics students, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of orbital motion will benefit from this discussion.

myuugen
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I was working on some side problems and came across one that confused me. Why is the magnitude of acceleration greatest at periapsis? I know that the a there is only centripetal a at that point. But if we look at another point, say theta = 90, there is both tangental and centripetal acceleration. How do we know the magnitude of accel won't be greater here? At this point, tangential accel should be a max and centripetal will be a min.

My professor gave me a hint. Look at max forces...I still don't get it.

Thanks in advance.
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
hi myuugen! :smile:

hint: F = ma :wink:​
 

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