How is the distance between Earth and Mars at closest approach most easily determined when using AUs?

Answer

By simple subtraction ($1.52 ext{ AU} - 1.00 ext{ AU}$).

When using AUs, the distance between planets can be found by simply subtracting their respective average orbital distances, which is significantly easier than working with millions of kilometers.

How is the distance between Earth and Mars at closest approach most easily determined when using AUs?

#Videos

AU and Light Years Explained - How we measure space - YouTube

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