Which of these statements correctly describes why Copernicus decided that the orbits of Mercury and Venus are smaller than the orbit of Earth?
A) Both Mercury and Venus can sometimes be seen high in the sky at midnight.
B) Both Mercury and Venus show a complete cycle of phases, like the Moon.
C) Both Mercury and Venus stay fairly close to the Sun in the sky.
D) Both Mercury and Venus occasionally pass through conjunction with the Sun as seen from Earth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Copernicus observed that Mercury and Venus always appear close to the Sun in the sky, which led him to conclude that their orbits must be smaller than Earth's. This observation is inconsistent with them having larger orbits, as they would then be visible at various positions across the sky, not just near the Sun.

Which of These Statements Correctly Describes Why Copernicus Decided That