Solar System Explorer Flashcard

Front

What is the main reason planets maintain a constant orbit around the Sun?

Back

The Sun's gravity is the force that controls the planets in their orbital positions.

Front

Which planets take less time to orbit the Sun?

Back

Planets that are closer to the Sun take less time to orbit.

Front

What is a Terrestrial Planet?

Back

A Terrestrial Planet is a type of planet that is composed primarily of silicate rocks or metals and has a solid surface.

Front

What is the density of Planet X if its mass is 42.5 (X10^23 kg) and radius is 5,200 km?

Back

Density = Mass/Volume; Volume = (4/3)π(radius^3); Density = 5.32 g/cm³.

Front

What are the four terrestrial planets in our Solar System?

Back

Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars.

Front

What is a Gas Giant?

Back

A Gas Giant is a large planet that is not primarily composed of solid matter, typically having a thick atmosphere of hydrogen and helium.

Front

Name the two Gas Giants in our Solar System.

Back

Jupiter and Saturn.

Front

What is the role of the Sun in the Solar System?

Back

The Sun provides the gravitational force that keeps the planets in orbit and supplies energy in the form of light and heat.

Front

What is the difference between a Dwarf Planet and a Terrestrial Planet?

Back

A Dwarf Planet is a celestial body that orbits the Sun and is spherical but has not cleared its orbital path, while a Terrestrial Planet has cleared its orbit.

Front

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

Back

Approximately 93 million miles (150 million kilometers), also known as 1 Astronomical Unit (AU).