Earth and Space Mid-Term Review

Front

What is an index fossil?

Back

An index fossil is a fossil that is used to define and identify a particular time period in the geological time scale. It must have lived for a relatively short period of time and be widely distributed.

Front

How does gravity change with distance?

Back

As distance decreases, gravity increases.

Front

What happens to the wavelength of light during redshift?

Back

During redshift, the perceived wavelength of the wave increases.

Front

What does redshift indicate about the motion of an object relative to Earth?

Back

Redshift indicates that the object is moving away from Earth.

Front

What does Kepler's 2nd Law state?

Back

Kepler's 2nd Law states that a planet travels faster when it is closer to the sun and slower when it is farther from the sun, covering equal areas in equal times.

Front

What is the significance of absorption spectra in astronomy?

Back

Absorption spectra help astronomers determine the composition, temperature, density, and motion of stars and galaxies.

Front

Define gravitational force.

Back

Gravitational force is the attractive force between two masses, which depends on their masses and the distance between them.

Front

What is the difference between redshift and blueshift?

Back

Redshift occurs when an object moves away from the observer, causing the wavelength to increase, while blueshift occurs when an object moves towards the observer, causing the wavelength to decrease.

Front

What is the role of gravity in the formation of planets?

Back

Gravity pulls together gas and dust in space to form planets, stars, and other celestial bodies.

Front

Explain the concept of the habitable zone.

Back

The habitable zone is the region around a star where conditions may be right for liquid water to exist on a planet's surface, making it potentially suitable for life.