Formation of the Planets

How long ago was our solar system formed?

• 4.6 million years ago

• 4.6 billion years ago

• 460 million years ago

• 46 billion years ago

What event is believed to have disturbed the cloud of dust and gas, leading to the formation of our solar system?

• A black hole forming

• A comet impact

• A supernova explosion

• A planetary collision

What is a solar nebula?

• A small, dense star

• A large cloud of gas and dust from which solar system bodies form

• A type of asteroid belt

• A collection of newly formed planets

What happened to the center of the solar nebula as the spinning slowed down?

• It cooled down and expanded.

• It became hotter and denser, forming the Sun.

• It broke apart into smaller pieces.

• It turned into a black hole.

Why were planets like Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, and Jupiter formed closer to the Sun?

• They were pulled in by the Sun's strong gravity.

• The outer regions of the solar nebula were too cold.

• The center of the solar nebula was hot, making it easier for these planets to form there.

• They are made of lighter elements that are attracted to heat.