If we know the semimajor axis and ________ of an object's orbit, then we can determine the object's closest and farthest points from the mass it is orbiting.
A) the total mass
B) eccentricity
C) the central mass
D) average velocity
E) albedo

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The semimajor axis and eccentricity of an orbit are used to calculate the periapsis (closest point) and apoapsis (farthest point) of an object's orbit around a central mass.

If We Know the Semimajor Axis and ________ of an Object's