Astronomy: Our Place in the Universe
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Questions and Answers

What distinguishes a dwarf planet like Ceres or Pluto from a full planet?

  • Dwarf planets are significantly larger than full planets.
  • Dwarf planets do not have sufficient mass for a nearly round shape. (correct)
  • Dwarf planets do not orbit a star.
  • Dwarf planets lack moons.

    • Which of the following correctly describes the organization of star systems?

  • Star systems are exclusively composed of single stars.
  • Star systems contain only stars that are the same age.
  • Star systems are always part of larger clusters.
  • Star systems can include multiple stars and are often pairs known as binary stars. (correct)

    • What is a defining characteristic of open star clusters compared to globular clusters?

  • Open clusters are usually composed of stars of similar colors.
  • Open clusters typically contain older stars.
  • Globular clusters have a higher number of stars. (correct)
  • Globular clusters are generally found near the periphery of galaxies.

    • What primary feature of the Milky Way galaxy is recognized today?

    <p>It contains a super-massive black hole at its center.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the definition of a light year in astronomy?

    <p>It is the distance light travels in one year.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Our Place in the Universe: Hierarchy of Structure

    • Planet Definition: A formal definition of a planet exists, differentiating it from dwarf planets like Ceres or Pluto.
    • Dwarf Planet Discrepancy: Dwarf planets fail to meet the necessary criteria to be considered a planet.
    • Solar System: A solar system can involve more than one star, often forming binary star systems. The planets are significantly smaller than the solar system itself.
    • Star Clusters: Two types of star clusters exist:
    • Open Star Clusters: Contain a smaller number of younger stars that are typically bluer.
    • Globular Star Clusters: Contain a larger number of older stars that are typically redder.
    • Milky Way Galaxy: A galaxy includes star clusters and individual stars revolving around a central point, a supermassive black hole. The galaxy's center lies within the Sagittarius constellation.
    • Local Group: The Local Group is a galaxy cluster comprising major galaxies like Andromeda, Milky Way, and Triangulum, alongside smaller ones.
    • Laniakea Supercluster: The Laniakea Supercluster is a part of the larger universe.
    • The Universe: The entire universe includes all existing energy and matter.

    Units in Astronomy

    • Astronomical Unit (AU): A unit of measurement used in astronomy.
    • Light Year (ly): A unit of measurement based on the distance light travels in a year, commonly used in space.

    Look-back Time

    • Distance and Time Relation: The further astronomers observe in space, the further back in time they see due to the time taken for light to travel.

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    Description

    Explore the hierarchical structure of the universe with this quiz. Learn about the definitions of planets, dwarf planets, solar systems, star clusters, and galaxies. Understand the relationship between different celestial bodies, including our place within the Milky Way Galaxy and the Local Group.

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