Problem 2
In order to conceptualize the size and scale of Earth and Moon as they relate to the solar system, complete the following: a. Approximately how many Moons (diameter 3475 kilometers [2160 miles]) would fit side-by-side across the diameter of Earth (diameter 12,756 kilometers [7926 miles])? b. Given that the Moon's orbital radius is 384,798 kilometers, approximately how many Earths would fit side-by-side between Earth and the Moon? c. Approximately how many Earths would fit side-by-side across the Sun, whose diameter is about 1,390,000 kilometers? d. Approximately how many Suns would fit side-by-side between Earth and the Sun, a distance of about 150,000,000 kilometers?
Problem 6
Halley's Comet has a mass estimated at 100 billion tons. Furthermore, it is estimated to lose about 100 million tons of material when its orbit brings it close to the Sun. If its orbital period is 76 years, calculate the maximum remaining life span of Halley's Comet.
Problem 7
Assume that three irregularly shaped planet-like objects, each smaller than our Moon, have just been discovered orbiting the Sun at a distance of \(35 \mathrm{AU}\). One of your friends argues that the objects should be classified as planets because they are large and orbit the Sun. Another friend argues that the objects should be classified as dwarf planets, such as Pluto. State whether you agree or disagree with either or both of your friends. Explain your reasoning.
Problem 8
Imagine that two comets, Comet \(\mathrm{A}\) and Comet \(\mathrm{B},\) are orbiting the Sun. The orbital period for Comet \(\mathrm{A}\) is 50 years, and for Comet \(\mathrm{B},\) it is 60 years. Comet A initially passes at a distance of 600,000 kilometers from Earth, while Comet B initially passes 450,000 kilometers away. At each orbital period, the minimum distances between Earth and the comets decrease by 40,000 kilometers for Comet \(\mathrm{A}\) and 25,000 kilometers for Comet \(\mathrm{B}\). Which comet will impact Earth first?
Problem 10
If a large meteorite were to strike Earth in the near future, what effect might this event have on the atmosphere (in particular, on average temperatures and climate)? If these conditions persisted for several years, how might the changes influence the biosphere?
