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)

Question

Responses

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

The asteroid slows down as it passes around Jupiter.
The asteroid slows down as it passes around Jupiter.

The asteroid falls into a perfectly circular orbit around Jupiter.
The asteroid falls into a perfectly circular orbit around Jupiter.

The asteroid enters an elliptical orbit around the sun.
The asteroid enters an elliptical orbit around the sun.

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.

Answer 1

Based on the physics of gravitational interactions and orbital mechanics, the three correct possible outcomes for the asteroid's trajectory after passing by Jupiter are:

1. The asteroid continues out of the solar system.

   • If the asteroid gains sufficient speed from the gravitational slingshot effect and is directed outward with enough velocity, it could escape the solar system.

2. The asteroid enters an elliptical orbit around the sun.

   • The asteroid could be redirected into an elliptical orbit around the sun due to Jupiter's gravitational influence.

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

   • Variations in gravitational forces can result in orbits that are not simple ellipses. The asteroid might end up in a more eccentric (elongated) orbit than a typical ellipse, which could resemble an "egg shape."

The other options, such as the asteroid slowing down as it passes around Jupiter or falling into a perfectly circular orbit, are generally less likely given the dynamics of gravitational interactions. Also, the asteroid spiraling into the sun would not typically occur unless it encountered a force significantly different from a slingshot effect.