An exoplanet is in a highly eccentric orbit with a semimajor axis of 0.4 AU.We expect it to have undergone:
A) tidal locking.
B) tidal synchronization.
C) neap tides.
D) spring tides.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A highly eccentric orbit means that the planet experiences varying tidal forces as it orbits its star. Tidal synchronization is the process by which a planet's rotation rate becomes synchronized with its orbital period, and it is driven by tidal forces. Therefore, it is likely that this exoplanet has undergone tidal synchronization instead of tidal locking or neap/spring tides, which are related to the relative positions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun.

An Exoplanet Is in a Highly Eccentric Orbit with a Semimajor