Fundamental astronomy: the angle between the plane of the Earth’s equator and the plane of the ecliptic is called the obliquity of the ecliptic. What is its standard value used in surveying calculations?

Introduction / Context:
The obliquity of the ecliptic (ε) is the tilt of Earth’s rotational axis relative to the normal of its orbital plane. This tilt underlies the seasons and is a fundamental constant in spherical astronomy, navigation, and geodetic computations that reference celestial coordinates.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard surveying and navigation tables adopt a representative obliquity value.
• Secular variations are small over human timescales and do not affect routine problems.

Concept / Approach:
Obliquity links equatorial and ecliptic coordinate systems. A commonly used mean value for many engineering purposes is about 23° 27′, sufficiently accurate for computations like converting between right ascension/declination and ecliptic longitude/latitude.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify definition: ε = angle between equator's plane and ecliptic plane.Use standard mean value used in tables: ≈ 23° 27′.Select the matching option.

Verification / Alternative check:
Modern precise values vary slightly (~23° 26′…), but 23° 27′ is the conventional rounded constant used in many textbooks and exams.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
22° 30′ and 24° 0′ are too far; 23° 30′ is close but less standard than 23° 27′ for conventional problems.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing mean obliquity with instantaneous or obliquity of date; rounding inconsistently across problems.

Final Answer:
23° 27'