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)

Answer 1

The shape of planetary orbits, which are generally elliptical, impacts their orbital velocity. According to Kepler's second law of planetary motion, also known as the law of equal areas, the line connecting a planet to the sun sweeps out equal areas in equal times, meaning that a planet travels faster when it is closer to the sun (perihelion) and slower when it is farther away (aphelion). Therefore, the elliptical shape of the orbit causes the orbital velocity to vary throughout the planet's orbit.