why is the period of an open orbit undefined?

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why is the period of an open orbit undefined?

2006-10-21 15:07:09 · 4 answers · asked by ryoheisukichan 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space

4 answers

Because it never repeats. It isn't periodic.

2006-10-21 15:10:10 · answer #1 · answered by campbelp2002 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋

I assume by 'open' orbit, you mean an object that doesn't circle the Sun or something else in a regular fashion - like a comet making a close pass and leaving the system - in which case, there is no regular orbit to define a period of.

2006-10-21 22:26:47 · answer #2 · answered by eri 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋

Got to agree with both answers! Open means not periodic so orbit doesn't make any sense,

2006-10-21 22:38:59 · answer #3 · answered by taurushead 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋

Because hyperbolic asymptotes are never crossed at the ankles.

2006-10-21 23:14:15 · answer #4 · answered by David S 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋