Answers in blue

1. Ancient astronomers constructed calendars using ...

a. the motion and phases of the Moon.
b. sundials and gnomons.
c. heliacal risings (the first appearance of stars before sunrise).
d. All of the above.
e. None of the above.

2. Ancient astronomers recognized ...

a. eight planets, because they had not discovered Pluto.
b. seven planets, including the Sun and Moon.
c. only four planets, because they could not see Mercury.
d. the Earth as a planet.
e. None of the above.

3. A planet at opposition (180 degrees from the Sun) ...

a. must be a superior planet.
b. is in direct motion (W to E with respect to the stars).
c. is fainter than it normally is.
d. All of the above.
e. None of the above.

4. Which of the following is an inferior planet (is never at opposition)?

a. Jupiter.
b. Neptune.
c. Venus.
d. Saturn.
e. Mars.

Home

Last modified 6 October, 2006. © Gregory C. Sloan.