What factors influence a planet's orbit?

What factors influence a planet's orbit?

Several factors influence a planet's orbit, including its mass, the mass of the star it orbits, and gravitational interactions with other bodies.

How does the distance from the sun affect a planet's orbit?

The distance from the sun affects the gravitational pull on the planet, which in turn influences its orbital speed and shape.

Can you explain Kepler's laws of planetary motion?

Sure! Kepler's laws describe how planets move in elliptical orbits, how they sweep out equal areas in equal times, and how their orbital periods relate to their distance from the sun.

What role do asteroids and comets play in planetary orbits?

Asteroids and comets can influence planetary orbits through gravitational interactions, and they can also impact planets, altering their orbits over time.

Are there any planets with unusual orbits?

Yes, some exoplanets have highly eccentric orbits or even retrograde motion, which are quite different from the typical orbits we see in our solar system.