An elementary introduction to the adiabatic invariants of the Kepler problem is proposed. Unlike the other didactical expositions already present in the literature, which are based on the Hamilton-Jacobi theory of mechanics, our derivation is suitable to be grasped even by first-year undergraduates. A central role in the present analysis is played by an elementary proof of the virial theorem for the Kepler problem which is based on the chain rule for derivatives. As a byproduct of our analysis, an interpretation of Keplerian orbit eccentricities in terms of the time average of the position vector direction is also provided.

Borghi, R. (2013). Adiabiatic invariants of the Kepler problem: an elementary treatment. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICS, 34(5), 1287-1298 [10.1088/0143-0807/34/5/1287].

Adiabiatic invariants of the Kepler problem: an elementary treatment

BORGHI, Riccardo
2013-01-01

Abstract

An elementary introduction to the adiabatic invariants of the Kepler problem is proposed. Unlike the other didactical expositions already present in the literature, which are based on the Hamilton-Jacobi theory of mechanics, our derivation is suitable to be grasped even by first-year undergraduates. A central role in the present analysis is played by an elementary proof of the virial theorem for the Kepler problem which is based on the chain rule for derivatives. As a byproduct of our analysis, an interpretation of Keplerian orbit eccentricities in terms of the time average of the position vector direction is also provided.
2013
Borghi, R. (2013). Adiabiatic invariants of the Kepler problem: an elementary treatment. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICS, 34(5), 1287-1298 [10.1088/0143-0807/34/5/1287].
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11590/144487
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