Question:

A planet revolving in elliptical orbit has :
A. a constant velocity of revolution.
B. has the least velocity when it is nearest to the sun.
C. its areal velocity is directly proportional to its velocity.
D. areal velocity is inversely proportional to its velocity.
E. to follow a trajectory such that the areal velocity is constant.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

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Kepler's second law: the areal velocity of a planet is constant; speed is greatest at perihelion (nearest to the sun).
Updated On: Nov 4, 2026
  • D only
  • E only
  • C only
  • A only
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Check each statement.
A: The speed of a planet in an elliptical orbit keeps changing, so it is not constant. False.
B: By conservation of angular momentum, \(v r\) is constant at the extreme points, so the speed is greatest when the planet is nearest to the sun. False.
C: Areal velocity \(\frac{dA}{dt} = \frac{L}{2m}\) is constant, not proportional to the velocity. False.
D: Areal velocity is not inversely proportional to the velocity; it is constant. False.
E: The planet follows a trajectory with constant areal velocity (Kepler's second law). True.
Answer: (2) E only
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