Exploring the Sun and Its Properties

What is the main property of the Sun's core?

• It is the outermost layer of the Sun.

• It is where nuclear fusion occurs.

• It is cooler than the other layers.

• It is the layer where sunspots are found.

Answer explanation

The Sun's core is where nuclear fusion occurs, converting hydrogen into helium and releasing vast amounts of energy. This process is essential for the Sun's energy output, making it the core's defining property.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

Which layer of the Sun is known for its reddish glow and is located above the photosphere?

• Corona

• Chromosphere

• Convective Zone

• Radiative Zone

Answer explanation

The layer of the Sun known for its reddish glow, located above the photosphere, is the chromosphere. It emits a reddish light during solar eclipses, distinguishing it from the other layers.

What is the phase of matter of the Sun?

• Solid

• Liquid

• Gas

• Plasma

Answer explanation

The Sun is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium in a state known as plasma, where the gas is ionized and consists of free electrons and nuclei. This makes 'Plasma' the correct answer.

What is a heliocentric model?

• Earth-centered model

• Moon-centered model

• Sun-centered model

• Galaxy-centered model

Answer explanation

A heliocentric model is a Sun-centered model, where the Sun is at the center of the solar system, and the planets, including Earth, orbit around it. This contrasts with Earth-centered models.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

NGSS.MS-ESS1-2

How long does it take for sunlight to reach Earth?

• 4 minutes

• 8 minutes

• 12 minutes

• 16 minutes

Answer explanation

Sunlight takes approximately 8 minutes to travel from the Sun to Earth. This is due to the distance of about 93 million miles and the speed of light, which is about 186,282 miles per second.

What is the main process by which the Sun generates light and energy?

• Nuclear fission of Helium to Hydrogen

• Nuclear fusion of Hydrogen to Helium

• Chemical combustion

• Gravitational contraction

Answer explanation

The Sun generates light and energy primarily through nuclear fusion, where hydrogen nuclei combine to form helium, releasing vast amounts of energy. This process is essential for the Sun's luminosity and heat.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

Which of the following is a type of solar activity characterized by dark spots on the Sun's surface?

• Solar flares

• Prominences

• Sunspots

• Coronal Mass Ejections (CME's)

Answer explanation

Sunspots are dark spots on the Sun's surface caused by magnetic activity. Unlike solar flares, prominences, and coronal mass ejections, which involve eruptions or plasma, sunspots are specifically characterized by their dark appearance.

What is the outermost layer of the Sun called?

• Photosphere

• Chromosphere

• Corona

• Core

Answer explanation

The outermost layer of the Sun is called the corona. It is the Sun's outer atmosphere, visible during a solar eclipse, and extends millions of kilometers into space, unlike the photosphere, chromosphere, and core.

Which layer of the Sun is responsible for transferring energy through convection currents?

• Radiative Zone

• Convective Zone

• Core

• Photosphere

Answer explanation

The Convective Zone is the layer of the Sun where energy is transferred through convection currents. In this zone, hot plasma rises, cools, and then sinks, creating a continuous cycle that efficiently transports energy.

What is a solar flare?

• A dark spot on the Sun's surface

• A sudden eruption of energy on the Sun's surface

• A loop of glowing gas extending from the Sun

• A large bubble of gas ejected from the Sun

Answer explanation

A solar flare is defined as a sudden eruption of energy on the Sun's surface, resulting in the release of intense radiation. This distinguishes it from other solar phenomena like sunspots or coronal loops.