Astronomers discover a new comet that follows a highly elliptical orbit. What is the eccentricity likely to be?
If a comet follows a highly elliptical orbit, the eccentricity is likely to be close to 1.
The eccentricity of a comet's orbit can vary widely. However, comets with highly elliptical orbits generally have eccentricities that are close to or greater than 0.9. It is possible for comets to have even higher eccentricities, approaching values close to 1. Therefore, if astronomers discover a new comet that follows a highly elliptical orbit, the eccentricity is likely to be quite high, potentially at or above 0.9.
To determine the likely eccentricity of a comet following a highly elliptical orbit, we need to review the characteristics of highly elliptical orbits and the factor that affects eccentricity.
In astronomy, eccentricity is a parameter that describes the shape of an elliptical orbit. It is represented by the symbol "e" and ranges between 0 (circular orbit) and 1 (parabolic or hyperbolic orbit). The eccentricity determines how elongated or stretched out the shape of the orbit is.
To estimate the eccentricity of a comet's orbit, astronomers rely on observations and measurements. They typically use two main methods:
1. Photometric Observations: Astronomers use telescopes equipped with specialized instruments to capture images and light data from the comet. By analyzing changes in the comet's brightness over time, they can derive information about the shape of the orbit, including its eccentricity.
2. Astrometric Observations: Astronomers make precise measurements of a comet's position in the sky over time. With these observations, they can calculate the orbital elements, including eccentricity, using mathematical models and techniques such as Kepler's laws.
Given that astronomers have discovered a new comet with a highly elliptical orbit, it is likely that they obtained the eccentricity value from observations using one or both of these methods. The specific value of the eccentricity will depend on the observations and measurements made by the astronomers studying the comet.
Therefore, without additional information, it is not possible to determine the exact or likely eccentricity of the newly discovered comet. Only the astronomers who made the discovery or subsequent researchers studying the comet would have access to these details.