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Chapter 4: Problem 9

Is it ever possible to see Mercury at midnight? Explain your answer.

Short Answer

Expert verified
No, it is not possible to see Mercury at midnight due to its position as an inner planet. It can usually be seen close to the horizon at sunrise or sunset.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the position of Mercury

Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun. As an inner planet, Mercury orbits within Earth’s path. As such, it always appears pretty near to the Sun from our perspective.
02

Think about the time

At midnight, Sun is on the exact opposite side of the Earth from the observer. That means, any celestial body being observed at midnight is in the direction away from the Sun.
03

Combine the information

Considering Mercury's position relative to the Sun and Earth and realizing that its apparent position in the sky is always near the Sun, one can deduce that it is not possible to observe Mercury at midnight. Mercury can usually be seen close to the horizon at sunrise or sunset.

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