Definition:Orbit (Physics)

This page is about the orbit of one body around another. For other uses, see Definition:Orbit.

Definition

The orbit of body $A$ around body $B$ is the path taken by $A$ as it travels around $B$ under the influence of the force acting between $A$ and $B$.

Period of Orbit

The period of an orbit of body $A$ around body $B$ is the length of time it takes for $A$ to travel once around $B$ and return to its original position.