1.
How many moons does Pluto have?
Correct Answer
C. 3
Explanation
Pluto has three moons: Charon, Nix, and Hydra. Charon is the largest and was discovered in 1978, while Nix and Hydra were discovered in 2005. These moons were discovered by the Hubble Space Telescope and are relatively small compared to Earth's moon. Pluto's moons are believed to have formed from the debris left over after a collision between Pluto and another celestial object billions of years ago.
2.
How long does it take for Pluto to orbit the sun?
Correct Answer
E. 248 years
Explanation
Pluto takes 248 years to orbit the sun. This is because Pluto is the farthest planet from the sun in our solar system and has a very long orbital period. Its distance from the sun and its slow movement around it contribute to the lengthy duration of its orbit.
3.
When will we get more information about pluto?
Correct Answer
A. 2015
Explanation
In 2015, NASA's New Horizons spacecraft made a historic flyby of Pluto, providing us with a wealth of new information about the dwarf planet. This mission allowed scientists to study Pluto up close for the first time, revealing details about its surface, atmosphere, and moons. Therefore, the correct answer is 2015, as it marks the year when we obtained significant new information about Pluto.
4.
What year was pluto decided not to be a planet?
Correct Answer
B. 2006
Explanation
In 2006, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) redefined the definition of a planet, and as a result, Pluto was no longer considered a planet. The IAU decided that for an object to be classified as a planet, it must orbit the Sun, be spherical in shape, and have cleared its orbit of other debris. Since Pluto did not meet the criteria of clearing its orbit, it was reclassified as a "dwarf planet" instead.
5.
What does pluto's atmosphere consist of?
Correct Answer
C. Carbon Monxcide, nitrogen, and methane
Explanation
Pluto's atmosphere consists of carbon monoxide, nitrogen, and methane. These gases have been detected by various space missions and observations. Carbon monoxide is present in significant amounts, along with nitrogen, which is the most abundant gas. Methane is also found in smaller quantities. These gases contribute to the composition and dynamics of Pluto's atmosphere, creating a unique environment around the dwarf planet.
6.
Pluto disturbs Uranus' orbit.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement "Pluto disturbs Uranus' orbit" is false. Pluto's gravitational influence is not significant enough to cause any noticeable disturbance in Uranus' orbit. While Pluto's orbit does intersect with Uranus' orbit, their gravitational interactions are minimal and do not result in any significant disturbances.
7.
Because of plutos frictional gravity the ice on the planet can melt and create ___________ which is needed to sustain life.
Correct Answer
Water
H2O
Explanation
The correct answer is water because the frictional gravity on Pluto can cause the ice on the planet to melt, resulting in the formation of water. Water is essential for sustaining life as it is a crucial component for various biological processes. Additionally, the mention of H2O in the answer further reinforces the fact that water is being referred to in this context.
8.
A KBO is and object found on the Kuiper Belt ring that is about how many AU from the sun?
Correct Answer
A. 30 AU - 55 AU
Explanation
The correct answer is 30 AU - 55 AU. A KBO (Kuiper Belt Object) is an object found on the Kuiper Belt ring, which is a region of the solar system beyond Neptune. It is believed to be the source of many short-period comets. The Kuiper Belt extends from about 30 AU to 55 AU from the sun, so objects found on this belt are approximately located within this range.