So, just using a 1/r relation for potential energy, and the ratio of perhelion to aphelion, this thing has only ~3% of the potential energy at the outermost point in is orbit compared to the innermost point. That's practically miraculous on its own, isn't it?
The paper authors are actually arguing for a Planet X which has had periodic encounters much weaker than that at a distance of a few hundred au.
Quite the change in distance from the sun. Btw, kinetic energy is proportional to 1/r, and is at a peak at the perihelion. Potential energy is highest at the aphelion.
The paper authors are actually arguing for a Planet X which has had periodic encounters much weaker than that at a distance of a few hundred au.