The Purpose of Describing Planetary Orbits in Terms of Epicycles

question 87

Multiple Choice

The purpose of describing planetary orbits in terms of epicycles and deferents was to account for the

• A) fact that a planet's speed in its orbit is fastest when it is closest to the Sun.
• B) pattern of alternating conjunctions and oppositions.
• C) pattern of alternating direct and retrograde motion.
• D) general motion of all objects toward the west in the sky each day.

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