Exoplanets that orbit their stars on trajectories with very small semimajor axes are likely to
A) have more moons than average exoplanets.
B) have rotation periods equal to their orbital periods.
C) have cool surface temperatures.
D) be captured from other stars.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Exoplanets with very small semimajor axes are likely to be tidally locked to their stars, meaning their rotation period equals their orbital period. This results in one side of the planet always facing the star and the other side in perpetual darkness.

Exoplanets That Orbit Their Stars on Trajectories with Very Small