What observations permit the mass of a planet to be most easily determined?
A)measurement of its albedo (reflectivity) and brightness in the sky
B)observation of its gravitational interaction with its moon
C)measurement of its excess infrared radiation as a measure of its gravitational shrinkage
D)measurement of its volume and density

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Observing a planet's gravitational interaction with its moon allows scientists to calculate the planet's mass based on the orbital characteristics of the moon, using Newton's law of universal gravitation. This method provides a direct and reliable measure of the planet's mass.

What Observations Permit the Mass of a Planet to Be