Ok is this object has a mean density that ive calculated of 3x10^3km m^-3 and a size of 58km x 23 km and ellipsodial would it fit the description more of a planet, moon, comet or smaller planet or asteroid im stuck between a comet or asteriod, any insite upon this?
2007-12-02 03:36:51 · 2 answers · asked by ? 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
I think you meant 3x10^3 kg...
That is 3 g per cu cm. Asteroids, moons, and meteoroids can weigh in on both sides of this figure. So now it seems that size is the only determining factor. Since meteoroids are generally considered smaller than this, it leaves moons and asteroids.
Comets are much less dense. Now the problem of deciding moon or asteroid. I can't say how to determine. Some moons are that size. Some asteroids are, too. In fact, several moons are just captured asteroids. I can't decide between the two.
Please e-mail me and let me know what the "right" answer was. And why.
2007-12-02 05:22:25 · answer #1 · answered by Brant 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's within the possible size range for either object, though big for a comet, so you need to look at the density. If it's less than water (1000 kg/m^3) you're probably safe calling it a comet. At 3000 kg/m^3 it's most likely an asteroid.
2007-12-02 05:06:25 · answer #2 · answered by injanier 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋