Questions and Answers
What is Semi-Major Axis? Is it variable?
Size of the orbit; Variable: a; Range: 0 to ∞
Semi-Major Axis is measured from what to what?
From Perigee to Halfway to Apogee
What is Eccentricity? Is it variable? What is its range?
Shape of the orbit; Variable: e; Range: 0 to ∞
Eccentricity describes how far the occupied focus is from the center of what?
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Describe the following eccentricity values: e=0.
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Describe the following eccentricity values: e>0.
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Study Notes
Semi-Major Axis
- Represents the size of an orbit.
- Denoted as the variable "a."
- Range of values extends from 0 to infinity.
- Measured from the perigee point to halfway to the apogee.
Eccentricity
- Indicates the shape of an orbit.
- Denoted by the variable "e."
- Ranges from 0 to 1 for elliptical orbits, but can extend to infinity under certain conditions.
- Describes the distance of the occupied focus from the center of the ellipse.
Eccentricity Values
- e = 0: Represents a perfect circular orbit.
- 0 < e < 1: Indicates an elliptical orbit. Higher values signify more elongated shapes.
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Description
This quiz covers key concepts in orbital mechanics, focusing on the semi-major axis and eccentricity of orbits. Understand how these variables define the size and shape of planetary orbits. Test your knowledge of how eccentricity affects orbital characteristics.
