The Earth And Solar System Flashcards
Which of Earth’s layers is the thickest?
Mantle
What is the order of events in Earth’s evolution?
Crust solidifies, oceans form, life appears, oxygen increases
Which layer of the Earth is primarily composed of low-density, solid, silicate minerals and rocks?
Crust
What is one way the ozone layer benefits life on Earth?
It blocks UV radiation that could break up molecules in the atmosphere such as water vapor.
What would an increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere cause?
Rise in Earth’s temperature
Which solar system object is classified as a dwarf planet?
Pluto
How was Earth’s moon formed according to prevailing theory supported by the scientific community?
The great impact hypothesis
During the formation of our solar system, small rocky planets formed near the Sun while large gas planets like Jupiter formed farther out in the solar system.
Why are gas planets unable to form in the inner solar system?
Solar radiation pressure pushed all the gas out of the inner solar system, leaving behind only heavier elements.
What is the “Jovian Problem”?
How large gas planets can form quickly enough, before the disks of raw material evaporate
What was the likely cause of Uranus’ extreme axial tilt of 98 degrees?
Impacts by at least two large objects
What was notable about the discovery of the planet Neptune?
It was discovered through mathematical calculations
Describe terrestrial planets
They are rocky and dense
Which solar system object is most similar to Earth in terms of mass and density?
Venus
Which celestial event would fail to occur without the moon?
Solar eclipse
