Comet Speed at 6x10^12 m from Sun

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In summary, a comet is orbiting the Sun in an elliptical orbit and has a closest distance of 4.7x10^10 m and a speed of 9.6x10^4 m/s. Its farthest distance is beyond the orbit of Pluto. To determine its speed at a distance of 6x10^12 m (approximately the distance of Pluto from the Sun), we can use the conservation of energy principle and cancel out the mass of the comet. The mass of the Sun will need to be looked up to complete the calculation.
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ohheytai
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A comet is in an elliptical orbit around the Sun. Its closest approach to the Sun is a distance of 4.7x10^10 m (inside the orbit of Mercury), at which point its speed is 9.6x10^4 m/s. Its farthest distance from the Sun is far beyond the orbit of Pluto. What is its speed when it is 6x10^12 m from the Sun? (This is the approximate distance of Pluto from the Sun.)



I have no idea how to do this can someone please help?
 
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conservation of energy. You know the potential energy and the kinetic energy at the closest point to the sun, and the potential energy at 6*10^12 m. All energies will contain the mass of the comet, but you can cancel that. You'll have to look up the mass of the sun.
 

FAQ: Comet Speed at 6x10^12 m from Sun

1. What is the speed of a comet at a distance of 6x10^12 m from the Sun?

The speed of a comet at a distance of 6x10^12 m from the Sun varies depending on the comet's orbit and the gravitational pull of other celestial bodies. On average, comets can travel at speeds ranging from 10 km/s to 70 km/s at this distance from the Sun.

2. How does the speed of a comet change as it gets closer to the Sun?

As a comet gets closer to the Sun, its speed increases due to the increasing gravitational pull of the Sun. This is because the Sun's gravity is strongest at its center, so as the comet approaches the Sun, it experiences a stronger pull towards the center, causing it to accelerate.

3. Can a comet reach speeds faster than 70 km/s at a distance of 6x10^12 m from the Sun?

Yes, it is possible for a comet to reach speeds faster than 70 km/s at this distance from the Sun. This can happen if the comet is on a highly elliptical orbit or if it experiences a gravitational slingshot effect from passing by another celestial body.

4. How does the speed of a comet at this distance compare to other objects in the solar system?

Comets at a distance of 6x10^12 m from the Sun tend to have slower speeds compared to other objects in the solar system. For example, planets like Earth and Mars have average speeds of about 30 km/s at this distance, while asteroids can reach speeds of up to 100 km/s.

5. Why is it important to know the speed of a comet at a distance of 6x10^12 m from the Sun?

Knowing the speed of a comet at this distance from the Sun is important for tracking and predicting its path and behavior. It can also provide insight into the composition and structure of the comet, as well as its potential impact on other objects in the solar system.

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