11th Grade Astronomy & Orbits Quizzes, Questions & Answers

11th Grade

Top Trending Astronomy & Orbits Quizzes

Understanding Trigonometric Orbit Models

Explore how planets, moons, and satellites move in predictable, repeating paths. In this quiz, you will identify the amplitude, period, and phase shift of orbital models, understand circular and elliptical motion, and determine...

Questions: 20 | Attempts: 11 | Last updated: Nov 10, 2025

Sample Question 1
A planet’s x-position (in AU) is modeled by x(t) = 2 cos(π t), where t is in years and the y-position is y(t) = 2 sin(π t). What is the orbital period?

1/2 year

1 year

2 years

4 years

Sample Question 2
A moon’s orbital radius is 420,000 km and its angular speed is ω = 2π/27.3 per day. Which equation gives the moon’s x-position (km) if at t = 0 it is at maximum x?

X(t) = 420000 sin(ω t)

X(t) = 420000 cos(ω t)

X(t) = 420000 cos(ω t + π/2)

X(t) = 420000 sin(ω t + π/2)

Sample Question 3
A satellite’s radial distance r(t) from Earth is modeled as r(t) = 6800 + 50 sin(4π t), in km, t in hours. What is the period of its radial oscillation?

0.25 h

0.5 h

1 h

2 h

Creating and Adjusting Orbit Models

Use trigonometric equations to build and adjust realistic orbital models. You will create formulas that describe motion around planets or stars, determine how to change amplitude, period, or phase for specific conditions, and...

Questions: 20 | Attempts: 10 | Last updated: Nov 10, 2025

Sample Question
A satellite orbits Earth with altitude modeled by h(t) = 420 + 35 cos(2πt/90), where h is in km and t is in minutes. What is the maximum altitude?

420 km

385 km

455 km

35 km