The Solar System

Front

What is a galaxy?

Back

A large group of stars, gas, and dust bound together by gravity. An example is the Milky Way.

Front

What is the closest star to Earth?

Back

The Sun.

Front

Who explained the motion of the planets in our solar system?

Back

Kepler.

Front

What model of the universe did Ptolemy introduce?

Back

The geocentric model, which places Earth at the center.

Front

What is an asteroid?

Back

A rock that orbits the sun, mostly found between Mars and Jupiter.

Front

What is the difference between a comet and an asteroid?

Back

Comets are icy bodies that release gas or dust; asteroids are rocky bodies.

Front

What is the largest planet in our solar system?

Back

Jupiter.

Front

What is the term for a planet's path around the sun?

Back

Orbit.

Front

What is the main component of the Sun?

Back

Hydrogen.

Front

What is a light-year?

Back

The distance that light travels in one year.