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Solar System Unit Test
A model shows that the moon has grown to twice its size, yet it has remained in the same place. In one to two sentences, explain how this would impact the gravity between Earth and the moon. (2 points)

Scientists have discovered a new planet. The planet is in a solar system whose star is similar in size to the sun and is about as far from the star as Venus is from the sun. The planet is similar in size to Earth, and its atmosphere is similar in thickness to Earth's atmosphere.
The atmosphere is composed almost entirely of carbon dioxide and methane.
In three to five sentences, make a hypothesis about the temperature on the planet's surface. Explain your answer using information about the planet's location and atmosphere
(4 point

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. (4 points)

In three to five sentences, explain the evidence that supports the idea that water on Earth may have come from comets. (4 points)

Answer 1

Solar System Unit Test Answers

1. Impact of Moon's Increased Size on Gravity: If the moon were to grow to twice its size while remaining in the same position, the gravitational attraction between the Earth and the moon would increase. This is because the gravitational force is directly proportional to the mass of the objects; therefore, a larger moon would exert a stronger gravitational pull on Earth.

2. Hypothesis about Planet's Surface Temperature: Given that the new planet is located at a distance from its star similar to that of Venus from the Sun, it is likely to experience high surface temperatures due to the proximity to its star. The atmosphere, being primarily composed of carbon dioxide and methane, would contribute to a strong greenhouse effect, trapping heat and potentially leading to extremely high temperatures on the planet's surface. Hence, the combination of its location and atmospheric composition suggests a harsh, hot environment.

3. Steps to Create a Scale Model of the Solar System:

   • Choose a Scale: Decide on a scale that simplifies the distances between planets while still being proportional (e.g., 1 cm = 1 million km).
   • Gather Data: Research the distances from the Sun for each planet and their sizes to ensure accurate representation in the model.
   • Construct the Model: Use materials like balls for the planets and a larger object for the Sun; arrange them according to the scale distances, making sure to note the size differences between the planets.
   • Label Each Planet: Clearly label each planet and add descriptions to explain their characteristics or unique features.

4. Evidence that Water on Earth May Have Come from Comets: Evidence supporting the idea that water on Earth may have originated from comets includes the discovery that many comets have a significant amount of water ice in their composition. Additionally, isotopic ratios of hydrogen and oxygen found in some comets closely match those present in Earth's oceans. Lastly, models of the early solar system suggest that the frequent collisions with comets during the planet's formation could have contributed to Earth's water supply, as these icy bodies would have delivered water and organic compounds upon impact.