What causes Mercury's 3:2 spin-orbit resonance?
A)the planet's closeness to the Sun
B)the planet's very eccentric orbit
C)the planet's high density
D)tidal torques operating on the planet
E)All of the above are factors.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mercury's 3:2 spin-orbit resonance, where it rotates three times on its axis for every two orbits around the Sun, is caused by a combination of factors. Its closeness to the Sun (A) and very eccentric orbit (B) contribute to the unique gravitational interactions and tidal forces (D) it experiences. These factors, along with its high density (C), which affects its gravitational self-compression and response to tidal forces, all play a role in establishing and maintaining this resonance.

What Causes Mercury's 3:2 Spin-Orbit Resonance