What is the term for the apparent westward motion of a planet in the sky compared to the background stars (as viewed from the Earth)when observed on successive nights?
A)epicycle
B)retrograde motion
C)prograde motion
D)heliocentric motion

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Retrograde motion is the term for the apparent westward motion of a planet in the sky compared to the background stars when observed on successive nights. This occurs because of the differences in the orbital speeds and distances between Earth and the observed planet.

What Is the Term for the Apparent Westward Motion of a Planet