A line between a planet and the sun sweeps out two equal areas at different places as it moves along its orbit. Which factor remains constant as this happens?

Question

Responses

the time required to sweep out the areas
the time required to sweep out the areas - no response given

the distance from the sun to the planet while it sweeps out the areas
the distance from the sun to the planet while it sweeps out the areas - no response given

the planet's speed as it sweeps out the areas
the planet's speed as it sweeps out the areas - no response given

the distance the planet moves along its orbit while it sweeps out the area

Answer 1

The correct factor that remains constant as a planet sweeps out equal areas in equal times along its orbit is the time required to sweep out the areas.

This concept is derived from Kepler's Second Law, which states that a line segment joining a planet and the Sun sweeps out equal areas during equal intervals of time.