The controversy is actually about what the definition of a planet should be as opposed to say, a moon or an asteroid.
2006-07-01 10:36:25 · 6 answers · asked by loriwsm1 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
astronomers are trying to define the word planet, but it isn't easy. many favor the reclassification of the bodies in the solar system into three groups: the rocky terrestrials, the gas giants, and the ice dwarfs. there are hundreds of known ice dwarfs. this is also called the kuiper belt. the ice dwarfs include bodies like pluto, quaoar, sedna, 2003 EL61, and 2003 UB313 (the official name of xena). 2003 UB313 is about five percent bigger than pluto.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuiper_belt
personally, i prefer this reclassification. i never thought pluto fit the pattern set by the other bodies in the solar system. its physical and orbital characteristics are just too different.
2006-07-01 11:28:36 · answer #1 · answered by warm soapy water 5 · 4⤊ 0⤋
It is currently classified as a planet, and will probably remain that way, although there is currently some debate about where the dividing line between panet and not-a-planet is.
Even if they decide that Pluto is smaller than the required size, they will probably "grandfather" it.
2006-07-01 17:44:41 · answer #2 · answered by Dave_Stark 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Pluto had been classified as a planet and it was a sort of minimum standard for planets.
2006-07-01 17:56:06 · answer #3 · answered by Dr. House 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes there is. There is a larger body beyond pluto in the Kuiper belt.
10th planet? Why not?
2006-07-08 12:56:13 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes it has been classified as a planet haven't u heard?
2006-07-01 17:43:19 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is a planet.It was classified as one long before the moon or asteroid debate began.
2006-07-01 17:40:43 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋