An asteroid approaches Jupiter and is slung around into a new trajectory point across the solar system. Which of the following is possible?
O The asteroid slows down as it passes around Jupiter.
O The asteroid continues out of the solar system.
O The asteroid adopts an unusual orbit around the sun, such as an egg shape.
O The asteroid falls into an irregular orbit around Jupiter.
All of the options are possible, depending on the specific conditions and gravitational interactions between the asteroid and Jupiter. The outcome would depend on factors such as the speed and angle of approach of the asteroid, the gravitational pull of Jupiter, and any other celestial bodies that may be involved in the interaction.
The correct possibilities are:
- The asteroid slows down as it passes around Jupiter. This is possible because of the gravitational pull of Jupiter, which can decelerate the asteroid.
- The asteroid continues out of the solar system. This is also possible if the slingshot effect caused by Jupiter's gravity is strong enough to propel the asteroid out of the solar system.
- The asteroid adopts an unusual orbit around the sun, such as an egg shape. This is possible if the gravitational interaction with Jupiter significantly alters the asteroid's original trajectory and leads to a new elliptical orbit around the sun.
- The asteroid falls into an irregular orbit around Jupiter. This is also possible if the gravitational forces from Jupiter pull the asteroid into an unstable orbit, causing it to have erratic movements around Jupiter.
The correct answer is: The asteroid adopts an unusual orbit around the sun, such as an egg shape.
When an asteroid approaches Jupiter and is slung around, it experiences a gravitational slingshot effect, also known as a gravity assist. This occurs because of the immense gravitational force of Jupiter.
As the asteroid approaches Jupiter, the planet's gravitational pull accelerates the asteroid, causing it to gain speed. During this process, the asteroid exchanges momentum with Jupiter, which results in a change in the asteroid's trajectory.
Possible outcomes of this slingshot maneuver are:
1. The asteroid could slow down as it passes around Jupiter: This is not possible. Since the asteroid gains momentum from Jupiter's gravity, it would actually speed up rather than slow down.
2. The asteroid could continue out of the solar system: This is not likely. A slingshot maneuver with Jupiter helps change the direction of the asteroid but it is unlikely to give it enough velocity to escape the solar system.
3. The asteroid could adopt an unusual orbit around the sun, such as an egg shape: This is possible. The slingshot effect can alter the asteroid's trajectory in such a way that it moves in an irregular orbit around the sun.
4. The asteroid could fall into an irregular orbit around Jupiter: This is possible as well. Although the asteroid is being slung around Jupiter, there's a chance it might end up in an irregular orbit around the planet instead of being flung out into space.
In summary, the most likely possibility is that the asteroid adopts an unusual orbit around the sun, such as an egg shape, as a result of the slingshot maneuver with Jupiter.