In order to determine the mass of a planet by applying Newton's laws of motion and gravity,the planet must have:
A)rings.
B)moons.
C)a solid surface.
D)a known size and distance from Earth.
E)planets further from the Sun than itself.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Moons are necessary to determine the mass of a planet using Newton's laws of motion and gravity because the orbit of a moon around a planet can be observed and measured. By applying these laws, specifically Newton's law of universal gravitation and his second law of motion, the mass of the planet can be calculated based on the orbital characteristics of its moon(s).

In Order to Determine the Mass of a Planet by Applying