According to Kepler's second law, the speed of the planet is -------- -, when it is closest to the sun and is -------- when it is farthest from the sun.

Options

A. maximum, minimum
B. minimum, maximum
C. zero, infinity
D. infinity, zero

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Kepler's Second Law**: Kepler's second law, also known as the law of areas, states that a line segment joining a planet and the Sun sweeps out equal areas during equal intervals of time. This implies that the speed of the planet varies depending on its distance from the Sun.

2. **Identifying the Closest and Farthest Points**: In an elliptical orbit, the closest point to the Sun is called perihelion, and the farthest point is called aphelion. We need to analyze the speed of the planet at these two points.

3. **Analyzing Speed at Perihelion**: When the planet is at perihelion (closest to the Sun), it must cover a larger area in the same amount of time compared to when it is at aphelion. To do this, the planet must travel faster. Therefore, the speed of the planet is maximum at this point.

4. **Analyzing Speed at Aphelion**: Conversely, when the planet is at aphelion (farthest from the Sun), it covers a smaller area in the same time interval. As a result, the planet moves slower. Thus, the speed of the planet is minimum at this point.

5. **Conclusion**: According to Kepler's second law, the speed of the planet is maximum when it is closest to the Sun (perihelion) and is minimum when it is farthest from the Sun (aphelion).

**Final Answer**: According to Kepler's second law, the speed of the planet is **maximum** when it is closest to the sun and is **minimum** when it is farthest from the sun.

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