could someone please tell me why the moon is not a planet
2007-03-23 01:02:52 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
A planet has a strict definition in astronomical terms. In the solar system, a planet must be in orbit around the sun. The moon however, is in orbit around the earth. Therefore it is not classed a planet.
The definition of planet has been controversial lately, following the declassification of Pluto from planet to dwarf planet.
2007-03-23 01:10:56 · answer #1 · answered by dudara 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The moon orbits earth not a sun therefore it is a satellite of earth not a planet. In addition the moon does not have enough mass to have a strong enough gravitational pull to be considered a planet.
The moon doesn't meet the IAU classification for a planet
The International Astronomical Union defines "planet" as a celestial body that
1. is in orbit around a Sun;
2. has sufficient mass for its self-gravity to overcome rigid body forces so that it assumes a hydrostatic equilibrium (near spherical) shape
3. has cleared the neighbourhood around its orbit;
Finally
Our solar system is thus considered to have eight planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Pursuant to a separate resolution, the IAU has designated three dwarf planets: Ceres, Pluto, and Eris. There have been more than two hundred planets discovered orbiting other stars to date
2007-03-23 01:15:26 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
The moon orbits the Earth. A planet orbits the sun.
2007-03-23 01:09:07 · answer #3 · answered by Willem V 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A planet is usually orbiting around a star.
A moon is orbiting around a planet
2007-03-23 07:52:16 · answer #4 · answered by najj 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The planets orbit the stars, and the moons orbit the planets. so the moon isn't a planet.
2007-03-23 01:26:58 · answer #5 · answered by creagrouption 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the moon is not a planet because it orbits eath. In order to be a planet an object bust be a certain size and must orbit a star.
2007-03-23 02:39:53 · answer #6 · answered by ge831 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Here are the conditions that must apply for a object to be a planet:
Must use it's gravity o pull it's self into a ball, and achieve hydrostatic equilibrium. Check
Must orbit the sun. Check
Must dominate it's orbit around the sun. Not check, the earth dominates that.
http://groups.google.co.in/group/neat-astronomy?hl=en
2007-03-23 01:33:38 · answer #7 · answered by chase 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because it orbits a planet.
2007-03-23 01:10:01 · answer #8 · answered by ? 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
because it's a satellite. it orbits a planet.
2007-03-23 01:42:34 · answer #9 · answered by neutron 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
it orbits the earth and its not big enouth
2007-03-23 01:37:01 · answer #10 · answered by Kris F 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋