Question
Question: A planet revolving in elliptical orbit has :...
A planet revolving in elliptical orbit has :
A
a constant velocity of revolution.
B
has the least velocity when it is nearest to the sun.
C
its areal velocity is directly proportional to its velocity.
D
areal velocity is inversely proportional to its velocity.
E
to follow a trajectory such that the areal velocity is constant.
Answer
E only
Explanation
Solution
According to Kepler’s second law, a planet sweeps out equal areas in equal times. This means the areal velocity is constant throughout the orbit. Hence, the planet follows a trajectory such that its areal velocity remains constant.