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Elliptical Orbits. Cali & Paul. Definition. Elliptical Orbits An elliptical orbit that has an eccentricity less than 1 and is also known as a Kepler orbit. Definition Cont.
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Elliptical Orbits Cali & Paul
Definition • Elliptical Orbits An elliptical orbit that has an eccentricity less than 1 and is also known as a Kepler orbit
Definition Cont. • Ellipse: An oval-shaped curve that is a path of a point that moves such that the sum of its distances from two fixed points (foci) is constant. • Foci: One of the two points for which the sum of the differences to any point on the ellipse is a constant. • Ex A satellite orbiting Earth moves an ellipse that has Earth as one focus.
Question • The orbit of a satellite is shown in a sketch. In which of the positions A through D does the satellite have the greatest speed? Least speed? C D B A
Answer • Position A because the satellite gains momentum as it begins its orbit and as it descends back to its original point, its momentum is greatest.
Answer Cont. • Position C because the satellite gains momentum as it begins its orbit and as it enters the middle of its orbit, its speed is least.