The table below compares the distances between two bodies.

Question

Comparison of Distance
Bodies Distance
X and Y 30.2 AU
Y and Z 7.2 light years

Based on the table, which of the following statements could be true?
X and Y are both within the solar system.
Y and Z are both within the solar system.
X and Y are farther apart than Y and Z.
Y and Z are both present on Earth.

Answer 1

To analyze the statements based on the given distances:

1. X and Y are both within the solar system.

   • The distance between X and Y is 30.2 AU (astronomical units). Since 1 AU is the average distance from the Earth to the Sun (~93 million miles), this distance is indeed within the solar system, making this statement potentially true.

2. Y and Z are both within the solar system.

   • The distance between Y and Z is 7.2 light years. A light year is about 63,241 AU, which is far outside the bounds of our solar system. Therefore, this statement is false.

3. X and Y are farther apart than Y and Z.

   • Comparing the distances: 30.2 AU (X and Y) vs. 7.2 light years (Y and Z). Converting 7.2 light years into AU:
     • 7.2 light years × 63,241 AU/light year ≈ 456,000 AU.
   • Since 30.2 AU is much less than 456,000 AU, this statement is false.

4. Y and Z are both present on Earth.

   • Given that Y and Z are 7.2 light years apart, it is impossible for both to be present on Earth at the same time. This statement is false.

Based on this analysis, the only statement that could be true is:

X and Y are both within the solar system.