Space Systems: Stars and the Solar System Quiz

What force pulls objects toward the center of the Earth?

• Friction

• Magnetism

• Electricity

• Gravity

Answer explanation

The force that pulls objects toward the center of the Earth is gravity. It is a natural phenomenon that attracts two bodies toward each other, with Earth exerting a gravitational pull on all objects near its surface.

Why does the sun appear brighter than other stars?

• It is made of different materials

• It is larger than other stars

• It is closer to Earth than other stars

• It is hotter than other stars

Answer explanation

The sun appears brighter than other stars primarily because it is much closer to Earth. Its proximity makes it appear larger and brighter, despite being an average-sized star compared to others in the universe.

What causes day and night on Earth?

• The sun's movement around Earth

• The moon blocking the sun

• Earth's revolution around the sun

• Earth's rotation on its axis

Answer explanation

Day and night on Earth are caused by its rotation on its axis. As Earth spins, different parts face the sun, creating daylight, while the opposite side experiences night.

What is a constellation?

• A single bright star

• A planet in the solar system

• A group of stars forming a recognizable pattern

• A type of galaxy

Answer explanation

A constellation is defined as a group of stars forming a recognizable pattern, often named after mythological figures or objects. This distinguishes it from a single star, a planet, or a galaxy.

What is the path an object takes around another object in space called?

• Orbit

• Rotation

• Axis

• Revolution

Answer explanation

The path an object takes around another object in space is called an 'orbit'. This term specifically refers to the curved trajectory that one celestial body follows due to the gravitational pull of another.

What is the main reason for the changing seasons on Earth?

• The phases of the moon

• The speed of Earth's rotation

• The tilt of Earth's axis

• The distance of Earth from the sun

Answer explanation

The main reason for the changing seasons on Earth is the tilt of Earth's axis. This tilt causes different parts of the Earth to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year, leading to seasonal changes.

Which of the following is a dwarf planet in our solar system?

• Jupiter

• Mars

• Pluto

• Venus

Answer explanation

Pluto is classified as a dwarf planet due to its size and characteristics, while Jupiter, Mars, and Venus are classified as full planets. Therefore, Pluto is the correct answer.

What is the Milky Way?

• A type of star

• A constellation

• A galaxy

• A planet

Answer explanation

The Milky Way is a galaxy, which is a massive system of stars, gas, dust, and dark matter bound together by gravity. It is not a type of star, a constellation, or a planet.

Why do all of the planets orbit the sun rather than Earth?

• the sun has more mass

• the sun is a star

• the Earth is heavier

• the sun is in the middle of the milky way

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-2

NGSS.MS-PS2-4