Contrary to common belief, the Earth is actually closest to the sun during January (perihelion) and furthest from the sun in July (aphelion). According to Kepler’s second law, when is the Earth moving with the fastest velocity through space?(1 point)

Question

Responses

The speed is the same everywhere on the elliptical path
The speed is the same everywhere on the elliptical path

A point between perihelion and aphelion
A point between perihelion and aphelion

Aphelion (furthest from the sun)
Aphelion (furthest from the sun)

Perihelion (closest to the sun)

Answer 1

According to Kepler’s second law, the Earth moves fastest through space when it is at perihelion, which is when it is closest to the Sun. Therefore, the correct response is:

Perihelion (closest to the sun)