An asteroid approaches Jupiter and is slung around into a new trajectory across the solar system. Which of the following are possible? Select the three correct answers.(2 points)
Responses
The asteroid continues out of the solar system.
The asteroid continues out of the solar system.
The asteroid adopts an unusual orbit around the sun, such as an egg shape.
The asteroid adopts an unusual orbit around the sun, such as an egg shape.
The asteroid spirals into the sun.
The asteroid spirals into the sun.
The asteroid enters a stable elliptical orbit around the sun.
The asteroid enters a stable elliptical orbit around the sun.
The asteroid slows down as it passes around Jupiter.
The asteroid slows down as it passes around Jupiter.
The asteroid falls into an irregular orbit around Jupiter.
To determine which options are possible, we need to consider the laws of physics and the dynamics of celestial bodies.
1. The asteroid continues out of the solar system:
This is possible. If the asteroid's new trajectory is influenced by Jupiter's gravity enough to escape the solar system, it can be slung out into interstellar space.
2. The asteroid adopts an unusual orbit around the sun, such as an egg shape:
This is possible. Since the asteroid is being slung around by Jupiter's gravity, it can result in an irregular or elliptical orbit around the sun.
3. The asteroid spirals into the sun:
This is possible, but less likely. If the asteroid's trajectory brings it too close to the sun, the sun's gravity can cause it to spiral inward and ultimately collide with the sun.
4. The asteroid enters a stable elliptical orbit around the sun:
This is possible. Depending on the angle and speed at which the asteroid approaches Jupiter, it can be redirected into a stable elliptical orbit around the sun.
5. The asteroid slows down as it passes around Jupiter:
This is possible. When passing close to Jupiter, the asteroid can experience a gravitational slingshot effect, causing it to gain or lose velocity. Slowing down is one of the possible outcomes.
6. The asteroid falls into an irregular orbit around Jupiter:
This is possible. If Jupiter's gravity significantly affects the asteroid's trajectory, it can end up in an irregular orbit around Jupiter.
Therefore, the three correct answers are:
- The asteroid continues out of the solar system.
- The asteroid adopts an unusual orbit around the sun, such as an egg shape.
- The asteroid slows down as it passes around Jupiter.