Ask your own question, for FREE!
Physics 14 Online
OpenStudy (anonymous):

how would a planet move if the sun suddenly disappeared?

OpenStudy (anonymous):

What you must understand is that there is not one Sun in the universe, rather there are many billions of celestial bodies. That being said, hypothetically, if the Sun disappeared, very weak gravitational and cosmic forces would attract un-attracted celestial bodies such as planets towards them. Other factors such as solar winds, and the bombardment of asteroids may accelerate the process. Remember that in space, Newton's first law applies - The planet will keep on moving at a steady velocity towards the nearest celestial body with enough mass to attract the planet. It'll eventually either smash into other celestial bodies, be absorbed by another Sun, or get into orbit around a large celestial body. Do understand the grand scale of things here. This is likely to happen after billions of light years.

Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!
Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!