What Is the Difference Between the Synodic and Sidereal Periods

question 205

Multiple Choice

What is the difference between the synodic and sidereal periods of a planet?

• A) The synodic period refers to the planet's period with respect to Earth's motion, whereas the sidereal period is the true period with respect to the background stars.
• B) There is no difference; they are one and the same time period. The synodic period is the name used in the geocentric theory, whereas the sidereal period is the name used in the heliocentric theory.
• C) The synodic period refers to the planet's motion with respect to the background stars, whereas the sidereal period is the true period with respect to Earth's motion.
• D) The synodic period refers to the planet's rotation around its axis, whereas the sidereal period is the time for one orbit.

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Definitions:

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A cognitive development test designed by Jean Piaget to assess a child's ability to understand perspectives different from their own.

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