The synodic period of a superior planet as it moves around the Sun as viewed from Earth is defined as the time between
A) conjunction and opposition on any orbit.
B) two successive passages through identical configurations, for example, two successive conjunctions.
C) two successive appearances of the planet at its highest point in the observer's sky.
D) two successive passages of Earth through the vernal equinox.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The synodic period of a superior planet (a planet that orbits outside of Earth's orbit) is the time it takes for the planet to return to the same position in the sky, relative to the Sun, as seen from Earth. This is most accurately described as the time between two successive conjunctions (when the planet aligns with the Sun and Earth) or any identical configurations, making option B the correct answer.

The Synodic Period of a Superior Planet as It Moves