The speed of a comet in its orbit around the Sun is ______________ when its distance from the Sun is least (perihelion).
A) zero
B) reversed
C) greatest
D) least

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Kepler's second law, a comet (or any planet) moves fastest when it is closest to the Sun (perihelion) and slowest when it is farthest from the Sun (aphelion). This is because the gravitational force between the comet and the Sun is strongest when they are closest, increasing the comet's velocity.

The Speed of a Comet in Its Orbit Around the Sun