Explain why a satellite in an elliptical orbit moves fastest at its closest approach…

PHYSICS · Subjective · A Level · Physics · Fields and their consequences · Fields and their consequences

Problem

Explain why a satellite in an elliptical orbit moves fastest at its closest approach to the central body even though the system’s total mechanical energy remains constant.

Related theory

Conservation of Angular Momentum
Angular Momentum
Satellites & Orbital Motion
Gravitation
Orbital velocity and period
Energy of an orbiting satellite

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