my daughter is suppose to find out why, but don't know where to look.
2006-12-07 11:55:23 · 7 answers · asked by aubrnfn31 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
The definition of a planet has to meet these criteria (according to the current view of a planet):
it must be in orbit around the Sun
it must be large enough that it takes on a nearly round shape
it has cleared its orbit of other objects
Pluto was automatically disqualified because its highly elliptical orbit overlaps with that of Neptune.
Pluto is smaller even than some moons in the Solar System.
The researchers said Pluto failed to dominate its orbit around the Sun in the same way as the other planets.
Its orbit around the Sun is also highly tilted compared with the plane of the big planets. It will now join a new category of dwarf planets.
The critical blow for Pluto came with the discovery three years ago of an object currently designated 2003 UB313. After being measured with the Hubble Space Telescope, it was shown to be some 3,000km (1,864 miles) in diameter: it is bigger than Pluto.
2003 UB313 will now join Pluto in the dwarf category, along with Pluto's major moon, Charon, and the biggest asteroid in the Solar System, Ceres.
I hope this helps.
2006-12-07 12:07:10 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Pluto was/is/will be still part of the Solar System. Only it was demoted from being called a planet to a dwarf planet.
2006-12-07 12:24:21 · answer #2 · answered by ramshi 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What can you expect when they name a planet after a Walt Disney cartoon character?
Seriously, tell her that it is indeed still a very real part of our solar system - it just isn't classified as a planet anymore - it's just a wee bit too small.
For instance, if Australia were to be changed from a continent to an island tomorrow - nothing would change but the name. No big deal.
And, for what it's worth, you should be commended, not chastised, for helping your daughter with her homework.
2006-12-07 12:11:19 · answer #3 · answered by LeAnne 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
A planet has to have each of the following 4 characteristics:
1) Be a sphere
2) must orbit a star and is not a satellite
3) I dont remember number 3.....
4) Must have its orbit path mostly cleared. Pluto does not have the 4th characteristic.
2006-12-09 08:28:45 · answer #4 · answered by k_man_su 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Any object within reach of our suns gravitational field will and is a part of our solar system, now and as long as it is effected by the sun gravitational field will and shall be a part of our solar system. A rose by any other name smells as sweet.
2006-12-07 19:31:35 · answer #5 · answered by bprice215 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
a planet is qualified as having its own orbit, but pluto shares neptunes orbit so it doesnt have its own
2006-12-07 12:31:18 · answer #6 · answered by jn_dogs 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
teach your daughter how to do her own homework. Its only all over the internet. Use google and make her figure the answer out. How will she learn to research and think for herself if you do it for her?
2006-12-07 11:59:27 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋