Which of These Descriptions Characterizes the Newtonian Understanding of the Mechanics

question 239

Multiple Choice

Which of these descriptions characterizes the Newtonian understanding of the mechanics of the solar system?

• A) The natural motion of the planets is motion in a straight line. The planets are prevented from straight-line motion by the gravitational force of the Sun.
• B) The natural motion of the planets is uniform circular motion. The gravitational force of the Sun distorts the orbits of the planets into ellipses.
• C) The planets are held in their orbits by a gravitational balance between the Sun (which is closer) and the stars (which are farther away).
• D) The planets are held in their orbits by a balance between gravitation (attraction) and magnetism (repulsion).

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Definitions:

Economic Profits

The surplus remaining after deducting both the explicit and implicit costs from total revenues; represents extra earnings above the next best alternative.

Fair Return

The reasonable profit that a business can expect to make, considering the risk involved.

Pure Monopoly

A market structure where a single firm is the sole producer of a product or service with no close substitutes, giving it significant control over price.

Profit-maximizing Price

The price level at which a company can sell its product or service to maximize its profit, considering cost, demand, and competition.