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 enters a stable elliptical orbit around the sun.
The asteroid enters a stable elliptical orbit around the sun.

The asteroid continues out of the solar system.
The asteroid continues out of the solar system.

The asteroid spirals into the sun.
The asteroid spirals into 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.
The asteroid falls into an irregular orbit around Jupiter.

The asteroid adopts an unusual orbit around the sun, such as an egg shape.

1 answer

The three correct responses regarding the possible outcomes for an asteroid slung around Jupiter are:

  1. The asteroid enters a stable elliptical orbit around the sun.
  2. The asteroid continues out of the solar system.
  3. The asteroid falls into an irregular orbit around Jupiter.

These options reflect various trajectories an asteroid can take after being influenced by Jupiter's gravitational pull.