The time from one inferior conjunction of Mercury to the next inferior conjunction of Mercury is 116 days. The time from one superior conjunction of Mercury to the next superior conjunction is
A) 58 days.
B) 116 days.
C) 232 days.
D) impossible. Mercury does not experience superior conjunction.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The time from one superior conjunction of Mercury to the next is also 116 days, just like the time from one inferior conjunction to the next. This is because both types of conjunctions are part of Mercury's synodic period, which is the time it takes for Mercury to return to the same position in the sky as seen from Earth.

The Time from One Inferior Conjunction of Mercury to the Next