The Solar System Quiz
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5 questions, one answer each
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1. Which of the following correctly describes the composition and location of planets in the Solar System?
- A. The four inner planets are rocky and small; the four outer planets are gaseous and large
- B. The four inner planets are gaseous and large; the four outer planets are rocky and small
- C. All eight planets have similar composition and size
- D. The inner planets are gaseous whilst the outer planets are rocky
2. What is the gravitational force that keeps planets in orbit around the Sun?
- A. The push of solar wind against the planet's atmosphere
- B. The gravitational attraction between the planet and the Sun
- C. The planet's own internal gravity pulling it towards its centre
- D. The magnetic field of the Sun repelling the planet
3. Light from the Sun takes approximately 8 minutes and 20 seconds to reach Earth. Approximately how long does light take to reach Neptune, which is about 30 times further from the Sun than Earth?
- A. Approximately 25 minutes
- B. Approximately 150 minutes
- C. Approximately 250 minutes
- D. Approximately 500 minutes
4. According to the accretion model, why do the four outer planets contain more hydrogen and helium than the four inner planets?
- A. The outer planets are older and have accumulated more light elements over time
- B. The outer planets have stronger gravity that can retain these light gases; they formed in regions cold enough for hydrogen and helium to condense
- C. The Solar System was originally composed only of hydrogen and helium, and the inner planets lost theirs
- D. Light elements migrate outward due to the Sun's radiation pressure
5. An object in an elliptical orbit around the Sun travels faster when it is closer to the Sun. Which physical principle best explains this observation?
- A. Momentum is conserved, so smaller orbital distances require higher speeds
- B. Gravitational force increases closer to the Sun, causing acceleration
- C. Energy is conserved; as gravitational potential energy decreases, kinetic energy increases
- D. The Sun's magnetic field is strongest near the centre, pushing objects faster