Astronomical Distances Formative Flashcard

Front

Why do we use light years and astronomical units to measure distances in space?

Back

Space is too big to use traditional units like meters.

Front

What is a light year?

Back

A light year is the distance that light travels in one year.

Front

Which unit is best for measuring the length of a classroom?

Back

Meters.

Front

What is an astronomical unit (AU)?

Back

The distance between the Earth and the Sun.

Front

Which of the following is CLOSEST to planet Earth: Jupiter, Andromeda Galaxy, Earth's moon, or the Sun?

Back

Earth's moon.

Front

What is the speed of light?

Back

Approximately 299,792 kilometers per second.

Front

How many kilometers are in one light year?

Back

About 9.46 trillion kilometers.

Front

What is the purpose of using astronomical units?

Back

To simplify the measurement of vast distances in space.

Front

What is the distance from the Earth to the Sun in astronomical units?

Back

1 AU.

Front

What is the closest star to Earth after the Sun?

Back

Proxima Centauri, approximately 4.24 light years away.