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 \(=3,474 \mathrm{~km}\) ) would fit side-by-side across the diameter of Earth (diameter \(=12,756 \mathrm{~km}\) )? b. Given that the Moon's orbital diameter is \(768,798 \mathrm{~km}\), 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 \(1,390,000 \mathrm{~km} ?\) d. Approximately how many Suns would fit side-by-side between Earth and the Sun, a distance of about \(150,000,000 \mathrm{~km} ?\)
Problem 5
The accompanying diagram shows two of Uranus' moons, Ophelia and Cordelia, which act as shepherd moons for the Epsilon ring. Explain what would happen to the Epsilon ring if a large asteroid struck Ophelia, knocking it out of the Uranian system.
Problem 7
It has been estimated that Halley's Comet has a mass of 100 billion tons. Furthermore, it is estimated to lose about 100 million tons of material when its orbit brings it close to the Sun. With an orbital period of 76 years, calculate the maximum remaining life span of Halley's Comet.
Problem 8
Assume three irregularly shaped planet-like objects, each smaller than our Moon, have just been discovered orbiting the Sun at a distance of 35 AU. One of your friends argues 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.
