A student wants to draw a scale model of the solar system. In three to four sentences or bullet points,

explain what steps should be taken to create this model.

1 answer

1. Research and determine the scale for the model: Decide on a suitable scale to represent the enormous distances between the planets. For example, you might choose a scale where each inch or centimeter represents a certain number of miles or kilometers.

2. Decide on the size of the Sun and planets: Determine the size you want to assign to the Sun, which would then determine the relative sizes of the other planets. For example, if the Sun has a diameter of 1 foot, you can calculate the diameters of other planets in proportion.

3. Gather materials and create the model: Use various materials like clay, styrofoam balls, or different-sized spherical objects to represent the Sun and planets. Place them in the correct order from the Sun, with the correct distances between them, according to the scale you've chosen.

4. Optional: Add other details: If desired, you can add other details like asteroid belt, moons, or spacecraft to enhance the accuracy and visual appeal of the model.