Earth Science Chapter 23 Study Guide

Front

What causes the glowing head of a comet, known as a coma?

Back

Vaporized frozen gases.

Front

What is the surface temperature of Venus?

Back

475°C.

Front

Which planets are considered terrestrial?

Back

Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars.

Front

Which planet has the shortest day in the solar system?

Back

Jupiter.

Front

How is Uranus's axis of rotation different from most other planets?

Back

It is parallel to the plane of its orbit.

Front

What are the main components of a comet?

Back

Nucleus, coma, and tail.

Front

What is the primary reason for Venus's high surface temperature?

Back

The greenhouse effect due to its thick atmosphere.

Front

What distinguishes terrestrial planets from gas giants?

Back

Terrestrial planets have solid surfaces, while gas giants are composed mostly of gases.

Front

What is the average distance from the Earth to the Sun?

Back

Approximately 93 million miles (150 million kilometers).

Front

What is the significance of Jupiter's Great Red Spot?

Back

It is a giant storm that has been raging for hundreds of years.