2 Body elliptical orbit
- Author:
- Constantinos Koudounas
- Topic:
- Conic Sections, Coordinates, Curve Sketching, Ellipse, Functions
Info
This applet graphs the orbit r, the magnitude of the velocity and the radial velocity of the reduced mass around its centre of mass, in a 2 body elliptical orbit scenario.
NOTE:
It's better to download the .ggb file and run it with the app instead of the browser. It plays much more smoothly in the app.
Start by moving the reduced mass back to θ=0ο, by clicking the button on the top.
To start the animation, check the box right under the top button.
The ratio of the masses can be changed using the m1 and m2 sliders.
In Graphics View 1, the quantities are graphed using a Cartesian plane, whereas in Graphics View 2 using polar coordinates.
You may also change the semi major axis a value, as well as the eccentricity, by adjusting the relative sliders.