Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Newton's Theorem of Revolving Orbits derives the force that is necessary to explain a particular precession that leaves the shape of an orbit unchanged. Newton showed that for an orbiting body that is already subject to any central force, the inclusion of an additional inverse-cube central force will change that body's angular speed without affecting its radial motion; this leads to the orbit's precession. After reviewing the relevant concepts of Kepler orbits, we present a full description and explanation of Newton's theorem using modern physical and mathematical approaches aimed at a general audience. We specifically highlight the use of the transformation between a rotating reference frame and an inertial reference frame, making this a suitable topic for an upper-level undergraduate mechanics course.
Source: American Journal of Physics
DOI: 10.1119/5.0166698
Authors: Nolan Samboy, Joseph Gallant
Institution: Western New England University
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4395000726