Halley's comet has an orbital period of 76 years, what is the average distance of Comet Halley from the sun?
A) 51 AU
B) 18 AU
C) 114 AU
D) 660 AU
E) 38 AU

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Kepler's Third Law, the average distance of a comet from the sun (semi-major axis) can be calculated using the formula: a^3 = T^2, where T is the orbital period in years. For Halley's Comet, T = 76 years, so a^3 = 76^2. Solving for a gives approximately 18 AU.

Halley's Comet Has an Orbital Period of 76 Years, What