Correct Response: C. Venus is unique among the planets of the solar system in having an axial rotation that is opposite in direction to its orbital motion. If the Sun could be seen through its thick atmosphere, it would appear to rise in the west. Venus' thick atmosphere makes it the hottest planet in the solar system, but it is always hot and unlike Mercury does not experience both hot and cold extremes (A). Venus' orbital path is inclined 3.4 degrees from the plane of the ecliptic (B). This is within several degrees of the other planets and less than the inclination of Mercury's orbit. Although the core of Venus is believed to be similar to Earth's and composed of nickel and iron, Venus' crust is composed primarily of silicate rocks (like Earth's crust), much of which were produced by volcanism (D).
