In 3–5 sentences, explain how the shape of planetary orbits affects their orbital velocity. Include the proper law of planetary motion as part of your answer.(4 points)

Planetary orbits are typically elliptical in shape, as described by Kepler's First Law of Planetary Motion, which states that planets move in elliptical orbits with the Sun at one of the foci. This elliptical shape means that a planet's distance from the Sun varies throughout its orbit, influencing its orbital velocity. According to Kepler's Second Law, a planet moves faster when it is closer to the Sun (perihelion) and slower when it is farther away (aphelion), reflecting the conservation of angular momentum. Thus, the shape of an orbit directly affects how quickly a planet travels along its path, with velocity increasing as distance from the Sun decreases.