2006-08-24 19:51:50 · 12 answers · asked by shunya 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
Better dropping one planet than adding several hundred more.
2006-08-24 19:53:09 · answer #1 · answered by Benanen 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes its status as a planet was due to our limited technology. Its new classification is in part due to our increased technology and increased knowledge about space.
Pluto is a dwarf planet in the solar system and the prototype of a yet to be named family of Trans-Neptunian objects. From its discovery in 1930 until 2006, it was considered the ninth and smallest of the planets of the Solar System, both by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) and the general public. However, after much debate, the IAU decided on August 24, 2006, to reclassify Pluto as a dwarf planet, requiring that a planet must "clear the neighbourhood around its orbit." It had qualified as a planet under the draft definition, passed by the General Assembly of the IAU.
Pluto has an eccentric orbit that is highly inclined with respect to the planets and takes it closer to the Sun than Neptune during a portion of its orbit. It is smaller than several natural satellites or moons in our solar system. Pluto itself has a large moon named Charon (the ratio of the size of Pluto to that of Charon is the largest such ratio known in our Solar System); two smaller moons named Nix and Hydra were discovered in 2005.
2006-08-24 19:59:05 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Advancements in science are being done all the time. You can argue with them, but they will continue to advance and learn more and more about our world and our universe.
Some people always object to changes and to advancement. That's why some people still believe the world is flat.
I think the scientists would not have come out with this announcement without researching it again and again. I believe Pluto is no longer considered a planet.
2006-08-24 20:01:06 · answer #3 · answered by brand_new_monkey 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, they have decided that Pluto is really more like an asteroid, however, thanks, it has been a planet for years and years. It is round, but don't know if it wobbles, which is one other way. I guess because it is small or something. I really do not understand it, however, there are new definitions for a planet. I am a little sad, because I would always run and get my grandmother's encyclopedia's when visiting her as a child, and look at the planets, even memorized them. Boo Hoo. . .
2006-08-24 19:57:34 · answer #4 · answered by shardf 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I've never thought of Pluto as a planet because of it's geravity and it's shape.
2006-08-24 20:40:42 · answer #5 · answered by bprice215 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I like poor little insignificant Pluto and I used him in a quiz for our end of summer camp meet only last Wednesday so I am very disappointed!
Also how could they do this to me one week before school starts?Now I have to alter all the books, posters class projects etc.
In the scheme of things did it really matter if they left him alone.... I am sure the scientists will say yes, but the rest of us will disagree.
2006-08-24 20:17:29 · answer #6 · answered by Christine H 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'd like to believe that pluto isn't a planet but I can't agree with their definition.
2006-08-24 20:00:51 · answer #7 · answered by Anon 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Nah. I don't think it's a planet either. If they scientists don't think it is and they've discussed and researched if it was or not. So, I believe 'em. Solar system doesn't really need Pluto. It's so far away anyway.
2006-08-24 19:55:10 · answer #8 · answered by Pregnant lady 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Good call - it doesn't deserve to be a planet. If it wants to be a planet, it needs to get its own orbit free of other planets and put on some weight -- kinda needs to round itself out.
2006-08-24 19:58:04 · answer #9 · answered by Lee J 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i do believe that pluto is not a planet since it has been proved now that it is just a mere astroid.
2006-08-24 19:58:55 · answer #10 · answered by Guy Nexdor 1 · 0⤊ 1⤋