Kepler's Laws of Planetary Motion

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Keplers Laws of Planetary Motion

Master Kepler's first law, second law, third law, planetary motion, applications, numericals and PYQs.

CBSENEETJEE MainJEE AdvancedIBIGCSEA-Level
Sun at focus centre other focus animated elliptical orbit moving planet major axis

Kepler's First Law: Law of Orbits

Every planet moves around the Sun in an elliptical orbit with the Sun at one focus. The Sun is not at the centre of the ellipse except in the special circular case.

Ellipse Details

  • Ellipse has two foci.
  • Major axis is the longest diameter.
  • Minor axis is perpendicular to major axis.
  • A circle is a special ellipse.

First Law Diagram

Sun focuscentreother focusminor axismajor axisplanet

Kepler's Second Law: Law of Equal Areas

The line joining a planet and the Sun sweeps out equal areas in equal intervals of time. The planet moves faster near perihelion and slower near aphelion.

dA/dt = constant

Equal Areas

slower farfaster near SunSun

Physical Meaning

Areal velocity remains constant because angular momentum is conserved in a central gravitational force. Equal area does not mean equal distance; it means equal swept area in equal time.

Kepler's Third Law: Law of Periods

The square of the time period of revolution of a planet is proportional to the cube of the semi-major axis of its orbit.

T2 proportional to a3
Circular: T2 = 4pi2r3 / GM
Elliptical: T2 = 4pi2a3 / GM

T

Time period of one complete revolution.

r and a

r is circular orbital radius. a is semi-major axis for an ellipse.

M

Mass of the central body such as the Sun or Earth.

Physical Interpretation

Path

First law describes the orbital path.

Speed

Second law describes speed variation.

Size and Time

Third law relates orbital size and time period.

LawNameMeaningFormulaExam Tip
FirstLaw of orbitsPlanet follows ellipse with Sun at focus.Ellipse pathSun is not at centre.
SecondLaw of equal areasRadius vector sweeps equal areas in equal time.dA/dt = constantSpeed changes in ellipse.
ThirdLaw of periodsPeriod depends on semi-major axis.T2 proportional to a3Use a for ellipse, r for circle.

Planetary Motion

Planetary motion may be circular as an approximation or elliptical in reality. Perihelion is nearest to the Sun, aphelion is farthest from the Sun, and the planet's speed changes continuously in an elliptical orbit.

Near and Far Positions

perihelion: high speedaphelion: low speed

Key Ideas

  • Gravity provides the central force.
  • Radius vector joins Sun and planet.
  • Speed is highest near perihelion.
  • Speed is lowest near aphelion.
  • Orbital energy is negative for bound ellipse.

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Applications

Planetary orbits

Concept: Predicts paths of planets around the Sun.

Formula: T2 proportional to a3

Exam Tip: Use semi-major axis for ellipse.

Artificial satellites

Concept: Designs satellite periods and radii.

Formula: T2 = 4pi2r3/GM

Exam Tip: Use orbital radius from centre.

Comets

Concept: Explains high speed near Sun and slow motion far away.

Formula: dA/dt = constant

Exam Tip: Second law controls speed variation.

Earth around Sun

Concept: Earth's year follows third law.

Formula: T = 1 year

Exam Tip: Sun is at one focus, not exactly centre.

Moon around Earth

Concept: Moon's orbital period follows Earth-centred form.

Formula: T2 = 4pi2a3/GME

Exam Tip: Central mass is Earth.

Geostationary satellites

Concept: Period matches Earth's rotation.

Formula: T = 24 h

Exam Tip: Orbit must be equatorial.

Space missions

Concept: Transfer orbits use elliptical paths.

Formula: T2 proportional to a3

Exam Tip: Semi-major axis of transfer ellipse matters.

Orbital transfer

Concept: Predicts timing between two circular orbits.

Formula: a = (r1+r2)/2

Exam Tip: Use transfer ellipse axis.

Astronomical calculations

Concept: Relates observed period and distance.

Formula: GM = 4pi2a3/T2

Exam Tip: Good for central-body parameter.

Finding mass of central body

Concept: Weighs planets and stars from satellite data.

Formula: M = 4pi2a3/(GT2)

Exam Tip: Satellite mass not needed.

Important Graphs

T2 vs a3

a3T2

Straight line through origin for same central mass.

Orbital Speed vs Distance

rv

For circular orbit, speed decreases as distance increases.

Areal Velocity

tdA/dt

Constant areal velocity for central force motion.

Distance vs Speed

distancespeed

Qualitatively, speed is higher when the planet is closer to the Sun.

Important Formula Table

ConceptFormulaMeaningExam Tip
Third lawT2 proportional to a3Period-size relation.Same central mass.
Circular orbitT2 = 4pi2r3/GMUse orbital radius r.r is from centre.
Elliptical orbitT2 = 4pi2a3/GMUse semi-major axis.Do not use changing radius.
Second lawdA/dt = constantAreal velocity is constant.Equal area in equal time.
Circular speedv = sqrt(GM/r)Speed in circular orbit.Not for general ellipse.
Perihelionv greaterNearest point to Sun.Maximum speed.
Aphelionv smallerFarthest point from Sun.Minimum speed.
Areal velocityL/2mAngular momentum form.Central force result.

High-Quality Solved Numericals

CBSE 1

Question: A planet has orbital radius 4 times Earth's orbital radius. Find its time period if Earth's period is 1 year.

Show Answer

Given: a2/a1 = 4, T1 = 1 year

Formula: T2/T1 = (a2/a1)3/2

Calculation: T2 = 43/2 x 1 = 8 years

Final Answer: 8 years

Exam Tip: Use semi-major axis ratio.

Common Mistake: Do not use direct proportionality T proportional to a.

CBSE 2

Question: If T becomes 27 times, what is the ratio of semi-major axes?

Show Answer

Given: T2/T1 = 27

Formula: T2 proportional to a3

Calculation: a2/a1 = (T2/T1)2/3 = 272/3 = 9

Final Answer: 9:1

Exam Tip: Convert period ratio to axis ratio.

Common Mistake: Do not square 27 first in mental steps without simplifying.

NEET 1

Question: Two satellites orbit the same planet with radii R and 9R. Find period ratio.

Show Answer

Given: r2/r1 = 9

Formula: T proportional to r3/2

Calculation: T2/T1 = 93/2 = 27

Final Answer: 27:1

Exam Tip: Same central mass means use radius ratio only.

Common Mistake: Do not include satellite mass.

NEET 2

Question: A comet is closer to the Sun at perihelion than at aphelion. Where is speed greater?

Show Answer

Given: Elliptical orbit

Formula: Areal velocity constant

Calculation: For equal area in equal time, smaller radius needs larger speed.

Final Answer: Speed is greater at perihelion.

Exam Tip: Second law is a speed law.

Common Mistake: Do not assume speed is constant in ellipse.

JEE Main 1

Question: A satellite period is 8 h at radius r. Find period at radius 4r.

Show Answer

Given: T1 = 8 h, r2/r1 = 4

Formula: T2 = T1(r2/r1)3/2

Calculation: T2 = 8 x 43/2 = 64 h

Final Answer: 64 h

Exam Tip: Period grows strongly with radius.

Common Mistake: Do not use square-root inverse speed relation alone.

JEE Main 2

Question: Find central mass if a satellite has circular radius r and period T.

Show Answer

Given: r, T

Formula: T2 = 4pi2r3/GM

Calculation: M = 4pi2r3/(GT2)

Final Answer: M = 4pi2r3/(GT2)

Exam Tip: Kepler's third law can weigh planets.

Common Mistake: Do not forget G in denominator.

JEE Advanced 1

Question: A planet sweeps area A in time t. Find areal velocity.

Show Answer

Given: Area = A, time = t

Formula: dA/dt = constant

Calculation: Areal velocity = A/t

Final Answer: A/t

Exam Tip: For central force it remains constant.

Common Mistake: Do not confuse areal velocity with linear speed.

JEE Advanced 2

Question: At perihelion and aphelion distances are rp and ra. Find speed ratio vp/va.

Show Answer

Given: Angular momentum conserved

Formula: mrpvp = mrava

Calculation: vp/va = ra/rp

Final Answer: ra/rp

Exam Tip: Velocity is tangential at apsides.

Common Mistake: Do not invert the ratio.

IB

Question: A planet's semi-major axis is doubled. How does T2 change?

Show Answer

Given: a2/a1 = 2

Formula: T2 proportional to a3

Calculation: T22/T12 = 23 = 8

Final Answer: T2 becomes 8 times

Exam Tip: Third law is about squares and cubes.

Common Mistake: Do not say T becomes 8 times.

IGCSE

Question: State where the Sun is located in a planetary elliptical orbit.

Show Answer

Given: Kepler's first law

Formula: Sun is at one focus

Calculation: The centre of ellipse is not the Sun in general.

Final Answer: Sun is at one focus.

Exam Tip: This is the most common definition point.

Common Mistake: Do not write centre.

A-Level

Question: Show circular orbit formula from Kepler's law.

Show Answer

Given: Circular radius r

Formula: T2 = 4pi2r3/GM

Calculation: From v = 2pi r/T, v2/r = GM/r2 gives same result.

Final Answer: T = 2pi sqrt(r3/GM)

Exam Tip: Links gravitation with Kepler.

Common Mistake: Do not use orbital height instead of radius.

Practice 1

Question: A planet has orbital radius 4 times Earth's orbital radius. Find its time period if Earth's period is 1 year.

Show Answer

Given: a2/a1 = 4, T1 = 1 year

Formula: T2/T1 = (a2/a1)3/2

Calculation: T2 = 43/2 x 1 = 8 years

Final Answer: 8 years

Exam Tip: Use semi-major axis ratio.

Common Mistake: Do not use direct proportionality T proportional to a.

Practice 2

Question: If T becomes 27 times, what is the ratio of semi-major axes?

Show Answer

Given: T2/T1 = 27

Formula: T2 proportional to a3

Calculation: a2/a1 = (T2/T1)2/3 = 272/3 = 9

Final Answer: 9:1

Exam Tip: Convert period ratio to axis ratio.

Common Mistake: Do not square 27 first in mental steps without simplifying.

Practice 3

Question: Two satellites orbit the same planet with radii R and 9R. Find period ratio.

Show Answer

Given: r2/r1 = 9

Formula: T proportional to r3/2

Calculation: T2/T1 = 93/2 = 27

Final Answer: 27:1

Exam Tip: Same central mass means use radius ratio only.

Common Mistake: Do not include satellite mass.

Practice 4

Question: A comet is closer to the Sun at perihelion than at aphelion. Where is speed greater?

Show Answer

Given: Elliptical orbit

Formula: Areal velocity constant

Calculation: For equal area in equal time, smaller radius needs larger speed.

Final Answer: Speed is greater at perihelion.

Exam Tip: Second law is a speed law.

Common Mistake: Do not assume speed is constant in ellipse.

Practice 5

Question: A satellite period is 8 h at radius r. Find period at radius 4r.

Show Answer

Given: T1 = 8 h, r2/r1 = 4

Formula: T2 = T1(r2/r1)3/2

Calculation: T2 = 8 x 43/2 = 64 h

Final Answer: 64 h

Exam Tip: Period grows strongly with radius.

Common Mistake: Do not use square-root inverse speed relation alone.

Practice 6

Question: Find central mass if a satellite has circular radius r and period T.

Show Answer

Given: r, T

Formula: T2 = 4pi2r3/GM

Calculation: M = 4pi2r3/(GT2)

Final Answer: M = 4pi2r3/(GT2)

Exam Tip: Kepler's third law can weigh planets.

Common Mistake: Do not forget G in denominator.

Practice 7

Question: A planet sweeps area A in time t. Find areal velocity.

Show Answer

Given: Area = A, time = t

Formula: dA/dt = constant

Calculation: Areal velocity = A/t

Final Answer: A/t

Exam Tip: For central force it remains constant.

Common Mistake: Do not confuse areal velocity with linear speed.

Practice 8

Question: At perihelion and aphelion distances are rp and ra. Find speed ratio vp/va.

Show Answer

Given: Angular momentum conserved

Formula: mrpvp = mrava

Calculation: vp/va = ra/rp

Final Answer: ra/rp

Exam Tip: Velocity is tangential at apsides.

Common Mistake: Do not invert the ratio.

Practice 9

Question: A planet's semi-major axis is doubled. How does T2 change?

Show Answer

Given: a2/a1 = 2

Formula: T2 proportional to a3

Calculation: T22/T12 = 23 = 8

Final Answer: T2 becomes 8 times

Exam Tip: Third law is about squares and cubes.

Common Mistake: Do not say T becomes 8 times.

Practice 10

Question: State where the Sun is located in a planetary elliptical orbit.

Show Answer

Given: Kepler's first law

Formula: Sun is at one focus

Calculation: The centre of ellipse is not the Sun in general.

Final Answer: Sun is at one focus.

Exam Tip: This is the most common definition point.

Common Mistake: Do not write centre.

Practice 11

Question: Show circular orbit formula from Kepler's law.

Show Answer

Given: Circular radius r

Formula: T2 = 4pi2r3/GM

Calculation: From v = 2pi r/T, v2/r = GM/r2 gives same result.

Final Answer: T = 2pi sqrt(r3/GM)

Exam Tip: Links gravitation with Kepler.

Common Mistake: Do not use orbital height instead of radius.

NEET Question Bank

All questions below are NEET Exam-style Questions unless a real year is explicitly written. No fake years are used.

NEET Exam-style Question 1

MCQ: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 2

MCQ: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 3

MCQ: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 4

MCQ: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 5

MCQ: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 6

MCQ: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 7

MCQ: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 32 times, T becomes 33 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 8

MCQ: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 9

MCQ: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 10

MCQ: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 62 times, T becomes 63 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 11

MCQ: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 12

MCQ: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 13

MCQ: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 42 times, T becomes 43 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 14

MCQ: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 15

MCQ: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 16

MCQ: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 17

MCQ: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 18

MCQ: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 19

MCQ: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 20

MCQ: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 21

MCQ: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 22

MCQ: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 32 times, T becomes 33 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 23

MCQ: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 24

MCQ: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 25

MCQ: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 62 times, T becomes 63 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 26

MCQ: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 27

MCQ: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 28

MCQ: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 42 times, T becomes 43 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 29

MCQ: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 30

MCQ: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 31

MCQ: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 32

MCQ: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 33

MCQ: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 34

MCQ: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 35

MCQ: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 36

MCQ: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 37

MCQ: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 32 times, T becomes 33 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 38

MCQ: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 39

MCQ: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 40

MCQ: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 62 times, T becomes 63 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 41

MCQ: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 42

MCQ: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 43

MCQ: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 42 times, T becomes 43 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 44

MCQ: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 45

MCQ: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 46

MCQ: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 47

MCQ: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 48

MCQ: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 49

MCQ: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

NEET Exam-style Question 50

MCQ: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main Question Bank

All questions below are JEE Main-style questions. No fake years are used.

JEE Main-style Question 1

Difficult question: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 2

Difficult question: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 3

Difficult question: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 4

Difficult question: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 5

Difficult question: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 6

Difficult question: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 7

Difficult question: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 32 times, T becomes 33 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 8

Difficult question: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 9

Difficult question: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 10

Difficult question: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 62 times, T becomes 63 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 11

Difficult question: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 12

Difficult question: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 13

Difficult question: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 42 times, T becomes 43 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 14

Difficult question: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 15

Difficult question: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 16

Difficult question: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 17

Difficult question: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 18

Difficult question: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 19

Difficult question: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 20

Difficult question: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 21

Difficult question: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 22

Difficult question: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 32 times, T becomes 33 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 23

Difficult question: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 24

Difficult question: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 25

Difficult question: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 62 times, T becomes 63 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 26

Difficult question: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 27

Difficult question: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 28

Difficult question: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 42 times, T becomes 43 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 29

Difficult question: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 30

Difficult question: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 31

Difficult question: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 32

Difficult question: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 33

Difficult question: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 34

Difficult question: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 35

Difficult question: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 36

Difficult question: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 37

Difficult question: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 32 times, T becomes 33 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 38

Difficult question: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 39

Difficult question: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 40

Difficult question: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 62 times, T becomes 63 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 41

Difficult question: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 42

Difficult question: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 43

Difficult question: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 42 times, T becomes 43 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 44

Difficult question: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 45

Difficult question: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 46

Difficult question: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 47

Difficult question: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 48

Difficult question: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 49

Difficult question: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Main-style Question 50

Difficult question: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced Question Bank

These focus on Kepler's third law, areal velocity, angular momentum conservation, elliptical orbit concepts, satellite motion and central force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 1

Advanced question: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 2

Advanced question: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 3

Advanced question: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 4

Advanced question: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 5

Advanced question: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 6

Advanced question: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 7

Advanced question: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 32 times, T becomes 33 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 8

Advanced question: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 9

Advanced question: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 10

Advanced question: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 62 times, T becomes 63 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 11

Advanced question: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 12

Advanced question: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 13

Advanced question: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 42 times, T becomes 43 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 14

Advanced question: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 15

Advanced question: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 16

Advanced question: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 17

Advanced question: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 18

Advanced question: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 19

Advanced question: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 20

Advanced question: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 21

Advanced question: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 22

Advanced question: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 32 times, T becomes 33 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 23

Advanced question: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 24

Advanced question: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 25

Advanced question: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 62 times, T becomes 63 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 26

Advanced question: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 27

Advanced question: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 28

Advanced question: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 42 times, T becomes 43 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 29

Advanced question: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 30

Advanced question: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 31

Advanced question: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 32

Advanced question: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 33

Advanced question: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 34

Advanced question: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 35

Advanced question: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 36

Advanced question: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 37

Advanced question: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 32 times, T becomes 33 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 38

Advanced question: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 39

Advanced question: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 40

Advanced question: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 62 times, T becomes 63 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 41

Advanced question: Kepler's first law says planets move in?

Show Answer

Answer: elliptical orbits with Sun at one focus.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 42

Advanced question: Kepler's second law states?

Show Answer

Answer: equal areas are swept in equal time.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 43

Advanced question: Kepler's third law gives?

Show Answer

Answer: T2 proportional to a3. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 42 times, T becomes 43 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 44

Advanced question: At perihelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: maximum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 45

Advanced question: At aphelion, a planet's speed is?

Show Answer

Answer: minimum.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 46

Advanced question: Areal velocity is related to?

Show Answer

Answer: angular momentum conservation. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 22 times, T becomes 23 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 47

Advanced question: For circular orbit, T2 equals?

Show Answer

Answer: 4pi2r3/GM.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 48

Advanced question: For ellipse, third law uses?

Show Answer

Answer: semi-major axis.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 49

Advanced question: If orbital radius becomes 4 times, period becomes?

Show Answer

Answer: 8 times. For a ratio problem, if a becomes 52 times, T becomes 53 times.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

JEE Advanced-style Question 50

Advanced question: The central force in planetary motion is?

Show Answer

Answer: gravity.

Explanation: This follows directly from Kepler's laws for motion under a central gravitational force.

IB / IGCSE / A-Level Questions

25 IB Questions

  1. IB question 1: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  2. IB question 2: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  3. IB question 3: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  4. IB question 4: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  5. IB question 5: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  6. IB question 6: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  7. IB question 7: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  8. IB question 8: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  9. IB question 9: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  10. IB question 10: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  11. IB question 11: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  12. IB question 12: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  13. IB question 13: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  14. IB question 14: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  15. IB question 15: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  16. IB question 16: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  17. IB question 17: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  18. IB question 18: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  19. IB question 19: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  20. IB question 20: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  21. IB question 21: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  22. IB question 22: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  23. IB question 23: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  24. IB question 24: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  25. IB question 25: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.

25 IGCSE Questions

  1. IGCSE question 1: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  2. IGCSE question 2: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  3. IGCSE question 3: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  4. IGCSE question 4: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  5. IGCSE question 5: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  6. IGCSE question 6: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  7. IGCSE question 7: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  8. IGCSE question 8: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  9. IGCSE question 9: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  10. IGCSE question 10: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  11. IGCSE question 11: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  12. IGCSE question 12: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  13. IGCSE question 13: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  14. IGCSE question 14: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  15. IGCSE question 15: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  16. IGCSE question 16: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  17. IGCSE question 17: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  18. IGCSE question 18: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  19. IGCSE question 19: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  20. IGCSE question 20: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  21. IGCSE question 21: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  22. IGCSE question 22: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  23. IGCSE question 23: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  24. IGCSE question 24: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  25. IGCSE question 25: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.

25 A-Level Questions

  1. A-Level question 1: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  2. A-Level question 2: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  3. A-Level question 3: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  4. A-Level question 4: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  5. A-Level question 5: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  6. A-Level question 6: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  7. A-Level question 7: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  8. A-Level question 8: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  9. A-Level question 9: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  10. A-Level question 10: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  11. A-Level question 11: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  12. A-Level question 12: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  13. A-Level question 13: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  14. A-Level question 14: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  15. A-Level question 15: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  16. A-Level question 16: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  17. A-Level question 17: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  18. A-Level question 18: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  19. A-Level question 19: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  20. A-Level question 20: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  21. A-Level question 21: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  22. A-Level question 22: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  23. A-Level question 23: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  24. A-Level question 24: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.
  25. A-Level question 25: State or apply a key result from Kepler's laws.
    Show Answer
    Use the appropriate law: path is ellipse, areal velocity is constant, or T2 proportional to a3. Explain with the given orbit data.

Assertion Reason Questions

AR 1

Assertion: The Sun is at one focus of a planetary ellipse. Reason: Kepler's first law defines the orbit shape.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 2

Assertion: A planet moves faster near perihelion. Reason: Equal areas must be swept in equal time.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 3

Assertion: Areal velocity is constant. Reason: Angular momentum is conserved in central force motion.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 4

Assertion: T2 is proportional to a3. Reason: All planets orbit the same central mass approximately.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 5

Assertion: The centre of ellipse is not generally the Sun. Reason: The Sun occupies one focus.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 6

Assertion: For circular orbit, a equals r. Reason: A circle is a special ellipse.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 7

Assertion: A comet has changing speed. Reason: Its distance from the Sun changes.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 8

Assertion: Satellite mass does not appear in Kepler's third law. Reason: It cancels in gravitational and centripetal equations.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 9

Assertion: Perihelion speed is greater than aphelion speed. Reason: Angular momentum at apsides gives rv constant.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 10

Assertion: Third law can estimate central mass. Reason: M = 4pi2a3/GT2.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 11

Assertion: The Sun is at one focus of a planetary ellipse. Reason: Kepler's first law defines the orbit shape.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 12

Assertion: A planet moves faster near perihelion. Reason: Equal areas must be swept in equal time.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 13

Assertion: Areal velocity is constant. Reason: Angular momentum is conserved in central force motion.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 14

Assertion: T2 is proportional to a3. Reason: All planets orbit the same central mass approximately.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 15

Assertion: The centre of ellipse is not generally the Sun. Reason: The Sun occupies one focus.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 16

Assertion: For circular orbit, a equals r. Reason: A circle is a special ellipse.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 17

Assertion: A comet has changing speed. Reason: Its distance from the Sun changes.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 18

Assertion: Satellite mass does not appear in Kepler's third law. Reason: It cancels in gravitational and centripetal equations.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 19

Assertion: Perihelion speed is greater than aphelion speed. Reason: Angular momentum at apsides gives rv constant.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 20

Assertion: Third law can estimate central mass. Reason: M = 4pi2a3/GT2.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 21

Assertion: The Sun is at one focus of a planetary ellipse. Reason: Kepler's first law defines the orbit shape.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 22

Assertion: A planet moves faster near perihelion. Reason: Equal areas must be swept in equal time.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 23

Assertion: Areal velocity is constant. Reason: Angular momentum is conserved in central force motion.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 24

Assertion: T2 is proportional to a3. Reason: All planets orbit the same central mass approximately.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 25

Assertion: The centre of ellipse is not generally the Sun. Reason: The Sun occupies one focus.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 26

Assertion: For circular orbit, a equals r. Reason: A circle is a special ellipse.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 27

Assertion: A comet has changing speed. Reason: Its distance from the Sun changes.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 28

Assertion: Satellite mass does not appear in Kepler's third law. Reason: It cancels in gravitational and centripetal equations.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 29

Assertion: Perihelion speed is greater than aphelion speed. Reason: Angular momentum at apsides gives rv constant.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

AR 30

Assertion: Third law can estimate central mass. Reason: M = 4pi2a3/GT2.

Show Answer
Both statements are true. In this item, the reason correctly supports the assertion when the same Kepler-law context is used.

Case Study Questions

Planet Around Sun

Passage: A planet revolves around the Sun in an elliptical orbit with the Sun at one focus.

  1. Which law gives this path?
  2. Where is the Sun located?
  3. Which axis is used in third law?
Show Answer

Answers: First law, one focus, semi-major axis. Explanation: Kepler's first law gives the shape and third law uses a.

Comet Orbit

Passage: A comet moves very fast near the Sun and slowly far from it.

  1. Name near point.
  2. Name far point.
  3. Which law explains speed change?
Show Answer

Answers: Perihelion, aphelion, second law. Explanation: Equal areas in equal times require changing speed.

Satellite Around Earth

Passage: A satellite moves around Earth at radius r and period T.

  1. Write Kepler formula.
  2. How to find Earth mass?
  3. Does satellite mass appear?
Show Answer

Answers: T2=4pi2r3/GM, M=4pi2r3/GT2, no.

Equal Area Law

Passage: A radius vector sweeps two equal shaded sectors in two equal time intervals.

  1. What stays constant?
  2. What is conserved?
  3. Is linear speed constant?
Show Answer

Answers: Areal velocity, angular momentum, no for ellipse.

Third Law Data Table

Passage: Planet A has a=1 unit and T=1 year. Planet B has a=4 units.

  1. Find T of B.
  2. Find T2 ratio.
  3. Which law is used?
Show Answer

Answers: T=8 years, T2 ratio=64, third law. Explanation: T ratio = 43/2.

Common Student Mistakes

Sun at Centre

Wrong: the Sun is at the centre of ellipse. Correct: Sun is at one focus.

Radius vs Semi-Major Axis

For elliptical orbit, third law uses semi-major axis a, not an arbitrary instantaneous radius.

Forgetting T2 proportional to a3

Period itself is proportional to a3/2, not a3.

Constant Speed Assumption

In an ellipse, speed is not constant. It is greater near perihelion.

Perihelion and Aphelion

Perihelion means nearest to Sun; aphelion means farthest from Sun.

Blind Circular Formula

v=sqrt(GM/r) is for circular orbit, not all points of an elliptical orbit.

Equal Area Meaning

Equal area law applies to equal time intervals, not equal distances.

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