The object whose discovery was prefaced by accurate prediction using the measured deviations of known planets from regular orbits and the application of Newton's laws of mechanics, is:
A)Uranus.
B)Neptune.
C)Pluto.
D)Mercury.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The discovery of Neptune was prefaced by accurate prediction using the measured deviations of known planets from regular orbits and the application of Newton's laws of mechanics. Uranus was known to have deviations in its orbit that couldn't be explained by gravitational influences from known planets, leading astronomers to predict the existence of another planet, which turned out to be Neptune when it was later discovered. Pluto's discovery did not involve accurate prediction based on deviations from known planets, and Mercury's orbit is well-explained by Newton's laws without the need for a hypothetical planet.

The Object Whose Discovery Was Prefaced by Accurate Prediction Using