Angular Momentum in OrbitMediumQuestion 30732
Question
For a satellite in elliptical orbit, angular momentum L is:
- AConstant throughout the orbitCorrect
- BMaximum at periapsis
- CMaximum at apoapsis
- DProportional to orbital speed
Correct answer
Constant throughout the orbit
Explanation
No external torque acts on the satellite (gravity is central). Therefore angular momentum L = mvr is conserved throughout the orbit. This is the basis of Kepler's 2nd law.