Physics 8.1.7

Question 1

3 Ways that the Orbits of Comets are very Different to those of Planets: (3)

Answer 1

-The Orbits of Comets are Highly Elliptical (v. Stretched Circles / Ovals), or Hyperbolic.

-This Causes the Speed of the Comets to Change Significantly, as its Distance from the Sun Changes.

-Not all Comets Orbit in the Same Plane as the Planets do, & Some Don’t even Orbit in the Same Direction.

Question 2

What Happens to a Comet as it Approaches the Sun? (2)

Answer 2

-It Loses Gravitational Potential Energy.

-It Gains Kinetic Energy.

Question 3

As a Comet Approaches the Sun, it…

Answer 3

Speeds Up.

Question 4

The Increase in the Speed of a Comet as it Approaches the Sun Causes a ___ ___.

Answer 4

Slingshot Effect.

Question 5

Explain what happens in the ‘Slingshot Effect’ on a Comet.

Answer 5

The Body will be Flung Back Out, Into Space Again, having Passed Around the Sun.

Question 6

What happens to a Comet as it Moves Away From the Sun, Due to the Slingshot Effect?

Answer 6

As it Moves Away From the Sun, it will Slow Down, Eventually Finishing its Orbit, & Falling Back Into, Towards the Sun Once More. In this way, a Stable Orbit is Formed.