An asteroid in orbit about the Sun has a linear speed of 4 km/s when at a distance of closest approach d from the Sun.What is its linear speed when it is at its greatest distance from the Sun,a distance 2d?
A)1 km/s
B)2 km/s
C)8 km/s
D)16 km/s

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The asteroid's linear speed at its greatest distance (2d) can be found using the conservation of angular momentum, which implies that the product of the linear speed and the radial distance from the sun is constant. Since the distance doubles, the speed must halve, making the correct answer 2 km/s.

An Asteroid in Orbit About the Sun Has a Linear