Nebular Theory Assessment Review

Which of the following is scientific evidence that supports the nebular theory?

• We have a written account of the formation of the solar system

• We have telescope pictures of planets in the process of forming in other parts of the universe

• As predicted by computer simulations, Lithium is the most common element in the Earth

• The textbook says it is so.

Which of the following is scientific evidence that supports the nebular theory?

• Static experiment and composition of meteors/comets support ideas about how planets could have formed out of a cloud of gas and dust.

• The cosmic background radiation confirms it.

• As predicted by computer simulations, Lithium is the most common element in the Earth

• The textbook says it is so.

A cloud of gas and dust is called a...

• photosphere

• nebula

• solar flare

• Sunspot

Nebulae are primarily composed of what elements?

• Hydrogen and helium

• Iron and oxygen

• Heavy elements

• Fire and water

Due to extreme gravity, areas of the nebula were compressed, ______________ the temperature and pressure.

• increasing

• decreasing

One of the main differences between the outer and inner planets is __________.

• The inner planets are larger than the outer planets

• the inner planets are much bigger than the outer planets

• the outer planets are less dense than the inner planets

• the inner planets have rings, and the outer planets don't

Which of the following is a scientific observation?

• NaCl (salt) crystals attract to each other and stick together (clump) in space.

• The solar system began to form when gas and dust began to stick together, which allowed larger and larger "chunks" of matter to form.

• 4.6 billion years ago, a nebula was present where our solar system is now.

• All small materials will clump together in space.

What used to be called the "nebular hypothesis" is now called "nebular theory." What prompted this change?

• Because it lacked proof, the idea was down-voted to being "just a theory."

• The inventors of the idea became very popular in science circles, gaining political power.

• New evidence (such as direct observations of solar systems in other parts of the galaxy) increased acceptance of the idea within the scientific community.

• Over two hundred years had passed since the idea was proposed (in the 1700's) so it was about time to call it a theory.

Which of these atoms has the greatest density? (Which has the most mass packed into the smallest space?)

• Li

• Be

• B

• C

The cubes at right all have the same mass (10 kg.) Which cube is the GREATEST density?

• A

• B

• C

• D