Observing a planetoid orbiting far from the sun, astronomers notice that the object slows down in its orbit in a way they did not expect. Which is a reasonable conclusion?(1 point)

Question

Responses

The planetoid is being repelled by something.
The planetoid is being repelled by something.

The planetoid is beginning to change its type of orbit.
The planetoid is beginning to change its type of orbit.

The planetoid is being attracted toward another massive object.
The planetoid is being attracted toward another massive object.

The planetoid is slowing due to friction.

Answer 1

The most reasonable conclusion is:

The planetoid is being attracted toward another massive object.

This conclusion aligns with gravitational dynamics, where the presence of another massive object could influence the orbit of the planetoid, causing it to slow down unexpectedly. The other options are less plausible in the context of gravitational interactions in space.