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The Laplace–Runge–Lenz vector describes the shape and orientation of the orbit of one astronomical body around another. In general, the LRL vector is conserved (it's a constant of the motion) in all problems in which two bodies interact by a central force that varies as the inverse square of the distance between them (Kepler problem). Its conservation is significant in the quantization of the Hydrogen atom.

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What symmetry causes the Runge-Lenz vector to be conserved?

Conservation of the Runge-Lenz vector does not correspond to a symmetry of the Lagrangian itself. It arises from an invariance of the integral of the Lagrangian with respect to time, the classical act …
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