L1 The Structure of the Solar System

Front

The shape of a planet’s orbit is a(n) _____________.

Back

ellipse

Front

The Sun and the objects that orbit it make up the _____________.

Back

solar system

Front

The time it takes an object to SPIN once is called its _____________.

Back

period of rotation

Front

___________ is used to measure long distances in the solar system.

Back

astronomical units

Front

Why is the SUN's gravitational force so strong?

Back

It has more MASS than any other object in the solar system.

Front

What is the center of the solar system?

Back

The Sun

Front

What are the two main types of planets in our solar system?

Back

Inner planets and outer planets

Front

What is the main difference between inner and outer planets?

Back

Inner planets are rocky, while outer planets are gas giants.

Front

What is an astronomical unit (AU)?

Back

The average distance from the Earth to the Sun, approximately 93 million miles.

Front

What is the period of revolution?

Back

The time it takes for a planet to complete one orbit around the Sun.