Solar System and Orbits - Paper 2

Question 1

What does the Solar System consist of?

Answer 1

• The Sun
• Celestial objects orbiting the Sun: planets, dwarf planets, asteroids
• Natural satellites (moons)

Question 2

In which galaxy is the Solar System?

Answer 2

The Milky Way

Question 3

List the steps in the formation of a star.

Answer 3

• Nebula (cloud of dust and gas)
• Protostar
• Main sequence star

Question 4

List the steps in the death of a star about the same size as the Sun.

Answer 4

• Red giant
• White dwarf
• Black dwarf

Question 5

List the steps in the death of a star much bigger than the Sun.

Answer 5

• Red supergiant
• Supernova
• Neutron star OR black hole

Question 6

Explain the origin of various chemical elements.

Answer 6

After the Big Bang, hydrogen (and some helium) atoms formed.
Nuclear fusion in the core of stars forms atoms of elements no heavier than iron.
Stars going supernova form atoms of elements heavier than iron.

Question 7

How are atoms distributed throughout the universe (since the Big Bang)?

Answer 7

Stars going supernova supply atoms with lots of energy.