Question 1

Why are orbits elliptical?

Accepted Answer

Planetary orbits are elliptical because gravity follows an inverse-square law. Johannes Kepler's First Law states that every planet orbits the Sun in an ellipse, with the Sun at one focus.

Question 2

What is a G-type main-sequence star?

Accepted Answer

A G-type main-sequence star (like our Sun) is a yellow dwarf star with surface temperatures between 5,200–6,000 K, fusing hydrogen into helium in its core.

Question 3

How far is Mercury from the Sun in kilometers?

Accepted Answer

Mercury is approximately 57.9 million kilometers (0.39 AU) from the Sun on average.

Interactive 3D Solar System Simulation with Planets, Moons and Elliptical Orbits

Solar System