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"Determine the relative distances of each of the planets from the Sun given [...]."
Devise methods to determine the relative distances of each of the planets from the Sun given the information available to Copernicus (observable angles between the planets and the Sun, orbital configurations, and synodic periods).
The solution is attached as TheSolution.jpg.
Trigonometry.
1) Is the case with the inferior planet also dealt with using sidereal periods?
2) How is the person answering the question supposed to know to consider the specific situation where the inferior planet is at greatest elongation and the specific situation where the superior planet goes from opposition to quadrature especially since, if different situations are chosen, the relative distances differ? (I'm asking this in case I am missing some important insight.)
Any input would be greatly appreciated!
Homework Statement
Devise methods to determine the relative distances of each of the planets from the Sun given the information available to Copernicus (observable angles between the planets and the Sun, orbital configurations, and synodic periods).
The solution is attached as TheSolution.jpg.
Homework Equations
Trigonometry.
The Attempt at a Solution
1) Is the case with the inferior planet also dealt with using sidereal periods?
2) How is the person answering the question supposed to know to consider the specific situation where the inferior planet is at greatest elongation and the specific situation where the superior planet goes from opposition to quadrature especially since, if different situations are chosen, the relative distances differ? (I'm asking this in case I am missing some important insight.)
Any input would be greatly appreciated!