The speed of a planet in its orbit
A) is always the same.
B) is least when it is closest to the sun.
C) is highest when it is closest to the sun.
D) Any of the above choices, depending on the planet.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Kepler's second law, a planet moves fastest when it is closest to the sun (perihelion) and slowest when it is farthest from the sun (aphelion). Therefore, the speed of a planet in its orbit is highest when it is closest to the sun.

The Speed of a Planet in Its Orbit