Solar System and Planetary Characteristics

How long ago did our solar system begin to form?

• About 1 billion years ago

• About 2.5 billion years ago

• About 4.5 billion years ago

• About 10 billion years ago

Where is our solar system located within the Milky Way Galaxy?

• In the center of the galaxy

• In the Orion Spur

• Near the edge of the galaxy

• In a different galaxy

Which of these is a common feature of terrestrial planets like Earth and Mars?

• They are made mostly of gas.

• They have many moons and ring systems.

• Their surfaces are solid.

• They are immense in size.

What makes Earth special compared to other planets in our solar system?

• It is the hottest planet.

• It has the shortest orbit around the Sun.

• Its water systems create an environment capable of sustaining life.

• It rotates on its side.

What did Mars likely have on its surface about 3.7 billion years ago?

• A very hot, lava-filled surface

• A watery or icy surface

• A thick atmosphere of helium and hydrogen

• Many large ring systems

Which of these is a characteristic of Jovian planets like Jupiter and Saturn?

• They are made of rocky material.

• They have solid surfaces.

• They are relatively small.

• They have multiple moons and ring systems.

What is unique about the planet Uranus's rotation?

• It rotates very slowly.

• It rotates backward.

• It rotates on its side.

• It does not rotate at all.

What is the Oort Cloud considered to be?

• The hottest part of the solar system

• The birthplace of all planets

• The edge of the solar system

• A belt of rocky asteroids