Aphelion

Definition

Aphelion is the point in the orbit of a celestial body where it is farthest from the Sun. It is crucial for understanding variations in orbital mechanics and energy computations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aphelion occurs once per orbit, making it a periodic event.
2. The distance at aphelion impacts the gravitational potential energy of the orbiting body.
3. Energy changes at aphelion are often analyzed using integrals in physics applications.
4. In elliptical orbits, aphelion contrasts with perihelion, where the body is closest to the Sun.
5. Understanding aphelion helps in modeling celestial mechanics and applying Kepler's laws.

Review Questions

• What defines the aphelion in an elliptical orbit?
• How does the distance at aphelion affect gravitational potential energy?
• Why is it important to understand aphelion in terms of orbital mechanics?

Related terms

Perihelion: The point in an orbit where a celestial body is closest to the Sun.

Elliptical Orbit: An oval-shaped path followed by a celestial body around another due to gravitational forces.

Kepler's Laws: Three laws describing planetary motion and their orbits around the Sun.