(Write a R.A.C.E.S) Understanding Scale: While creating your model of the Solar System, how did the scale of 1 AU = 1.5 inches help you understand the distances between the planets and the Sun? Provide specific examples from your model to explain your answer. (4 pts)

Answer 1

R.A.C.E.S Response:

Restate the question: Understanding the scale of 1 AU = 1.5 inches in my model of the Solar System significantly enhanced my comprehension of the distances between the planets and the Sun.

Answer the question: By using this scale, I was able to visualize and grasp just how vast the space is between the different planets in our Solar System.

Cite evidence: For example, in my model, the distance from the Sun to Mercury, which is about 0.39 AU, translated to roughly 0.585 inches. This small distance highlighted that Mercury is relatively close to the Sun compared to the other planets. In contrast, when representing Saturn, which is about 9.5 AU away from the Sun, I had to measure out 14.25 inches, demonstrating just how far Saturn is compared to the inner planets.

Elaborate: This stark contrast in distances allowed me to comprehend that although Mercury and Venus are often grouped as "inner planets," the gap to outer cities like Saturn and Uranus is immense. The realization that outer planets are not just slightly further but significantly more distant from the Sun deepened my understanding of the scale of our Solar System.

Summarize: Overall, using the 1 AU = 1.5 inches scale in my model provided a clearer perspective of the distances in the Solar System, illustrating how the inner and outer planets are arranged relative to the Sun and each other, making the vastness of space more tangible.