Planetary Geology Flashcards
What are the planets arranged from smallest to largest?
MeMaVENUSJ
What are the planets in order in the solar system?
MeVEMaJSUNP
Which planets have a prograde rotation?
Mercury, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Neptune
Which planets have a retrograde rotation?
Venus and Uranus
Why is Venus unique in its rotation?
It spins on its axis from east to west, making it the only planet that rotates in a clockwise direction
How does Uranus’ tilt affect its rotation?
Tilted so far over that it rotates almost on its side, making its rotation highly unusual compared to other planets
What is the difference between prograde and retrograde rotation?
Prograde rotation - planet spins from west to east (counterclockwise)
Retrograde rotation - it spins from east to west (clockwise)
Which planet rotates in a clockwise direction?
Venus
What is the shape of the Moon’s orbit around Earth?
Elliptical
What is the term used to describe the point in the Moon’s orbit that is closest to Earth?
Perigee
What is the term used to describe the point in the Moon’s orbit that is farthest from Earth?
Apogee
