If the elliptical orbit of Mercury were more eccentric, its precession rate would be
A)larger.
B)smaller.
C)the same.
D)nonexistent.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The precession rate of Mercury's orbit is due to the gravitational pull of the other planets in the solar system, especially Venus and Jupiter. If Mercury's orbit were more eccentric, it would spend more time near the Sun and experience stronger gravitational forces, leading to a higher precession rate.

If the Elliptical Orbit of Mercury Were More Eccentric, Its