Astronomy — Definition of Superior Planets Which group lists the “superior planets,” that is, the planets whose orbits lie outside Earth’s orbit?

Introduction / Context:
In classical observational astronomy, planets are categorized as “inferior” (closer to the Sun than Earth: Mercury, Venus) and “superior” (farther from the Sun than Earth: Mars and beyond). Many exams use this terminology to test orbit ordering and basic sky geometry concepts like opposition and conjunction.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We need planets with orbits exterior to Earth’s.
• Historical lists sometimes included Pluto; school questions may retain it.
• Earth itself cannot be “superior” relative to Earth’s orbit.

Concept / Approach:

Superior planets are those with semi-major axes greater than Earth’s. This set includes Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and (historically) Pluto. Among the options, the only group made exclusively of planets beyond Earth is “Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto.” Sets that include Mercury or Venus are inferior; sets including Earth are conceptually incorrect for this definition.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Recall: inferior = Mercury, Venus; superior = Mars → outward.Scan options for lists without Mercury/Venus/Earth.Select the exclusively outer-planet list.

Verification / Alternative check:

Observationally, superior planets can reach opposition (Sun–Earth–planet alignment), a behavior not possible for inferior planets—further confirming the categorization.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Options containing Mercury or Venus: Inferior planets, not superior.Options containing Earth: Earth cannot be superior relative to itself.

Common Pitfalls:

Assuming “superior” means “larger.” It does not; it refers to orbital position relative to Earth.

Final Answer:

Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto