Orbital angular momentum is primarily determined by what factor for planets like Mars?

Orbital angular momentum for planets, including Mars, is primarily determined by the product of the planet's mass, its orbital speed, and its distance from the Sun or central body around which it orbits. The concept of orbital angular momentum can be expressed with the formula L = mvr, where L is angular momentum, m is mass, v is orbital speed, and r is the radius of the orbit (orbital distance).

In this context, while mass and orbital speed both play significant roles, orbital distance (or radius) is critical because it directly affects the radius of the circular or elliptical path. As the distance from the Sun increases, the gravitational influence decreases, but the effective leverage—where this distance is multiplied by the mass and speed—becomes significant in calculating the angular momentum.

Therefore, the orbital distance directly influences the angular momentum, making it the primary factor determining the orbital angular momentum for planets. Understanding this relationship helps in grasping how planets maintain stable orbits and how changes in any of these variables can impact their motion.