Question

In: Physics

What is the orbital period (in years) of a planet with a semimajor axis of 15...

What is the orbital period (in years) of a planet with a semimajor axis of 15 AU?

Solutions

Expert Solution

for elliptical orbit,

T = 2pi sqrt(a^3 / G M )


G M = 6.67 x 10^-11 x 1.99 x 10^30

G M = 1.3273 x 10^20

and a = 15 AU = 15 x 1.496 x 10^11 m

putting in,

T = 1.833 x 10^9 sec  


T (in years) = (1.833 x 10^9 sec) / (365 x 24 x 3600 sec/year)

T = 58.1 years


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