When observing planetary motions from Earth, the phrase "direct motion" refers to the
A) slow westward motion of the planet from night to night compared to the background stars.
B) apparent westward motion of the planet (and the Sun, the Moon, and stars) across the sky due to the rotation of Earth.
C) motion of the planet directly toward or away from Earth in certain parts of the planet's orbit.
D) slow eastward motion of the planet from night to night compared to the background stars.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Direct motion in astronomy refers to the normal eastward movement of planets across the sky relative to the stars, as observed from Earth, which is opposite to the retrograde motion where planets appear to move westward.

When Observing Planetary Motions from Earth, the Phrase "Direct Motion