8.1 - The night sky - Archive Flashcards
Name the type of nuclear reaction that powers stars.
A fusion reaction.
What is the nearest star to Earth that isn’t our Sun?
Proxima Centauri - 9.46 trillion km away (4.2456 light years away).
What are the terrestrial planets in the solar system?
Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars
What are the gas giants in the solar system?
Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.
Yes or No, are comets part of the Solar System? Why?
Yes, because they also orbit the sun.
What are the reasons why some people can see more or less stars?
The weather, location and the moon’s phase and positioning.
How does the moon create light?
It doesn’t, it reflects light from the sun.
Why is the Milky Way called the Milky Way?
Because in ancient times, people thought it was a road made of milk.
Some planets can also make light and be mistaken for stars in the sky. How?
Because they can reflect light off other stars.
How many stars are we as human able to see?
Around 2000.
How long does it take for light to reach Earth from the Sun?
Approximately 8 minutes
What is the Sun made of?
Burning hydrogen gas that comes from nuclear explosions.
What do artificial satellites do?
They orbit the Earth, obsevering weather and handle communication around the world.
When meteoroids reach the ground before it has burnt up it is called a…
Meteorite.
What are comets made of?
Ice mixed with carbon dioxide and other substances.
