Question 1: Define a dwarf planet and explain how it differs from a regular planet.

Answer: A dwarf planet is a celestial body that orbits the Sun, has sufficient mass for its self-gravity to overcome rigid body forces so that it assumes a nearly round shape, but has not cleared its neighboring region of other objects. Unlike regular planets, dwarf planets share their orbital zone with other bodies and have not cleared their orbit.

Question 2: Describe the main physical characteristics used to identify dwarf planets in space.

Answer: Dwarf planets are identified by their spherical shape due to gravity, their orbit around the Sun, and their inability to clear other debris and objects from their orbital path.

Question 1: Calculate the orbital velocity (in km/s) of a dwarf planet orbiting the Sun at a distance of 43 astronomical units (AU), given that the gravitational constant G = 6.674 x 10^-11 N·m²/kg², the mass of the Sun = 1.989 x 10^30 kg, and 1 AU = 1.496 x 10^11 meters. Use the formula v = √(GM/r).

Answer: v = √(GM/r) = √[(6.674 x 10^-11) * (1.989 x 10^30) / (43 * 1.496 x 10^11)] ≈ 4.74 km/s

Question 2: A dwarf planet has a radius of 600 km. Calculate its volume assuming it is spherical. Use the formula V = (4/3)πr³, with π ≈ 3.1416.

Answer: V = (4/3) * 3.1416 * (600 km)³ ≈ 9.05 x 10^8 km³

Question 1: Describe a typical observational method astronomers use to identify potential dwarf planets in the Kuiper Belt.

Answer: Astronomers use telescopic imaging to detect objects in the Kuiper Belt by observing their movement against background stars over time, and measuring their brightness and size to determine if they are spherical and meet the criteria for dwarf planets.

Question 2: List two safety precautions astronomers should consider when operating telescopes or space instruments for dwarf planet detection.

Answer: Precautions include ensuring proper handling of sensitive equipment to prevent damage and following safety protocols during space operations to avoid exposure to hazardous environments or radiation.

Question 1: A newly discovered celestial body in the Kuiper Belt has a diameter of approximately 1,200 km and appears nearly spherical in images. It orbits the Sun at a distance of 45 AU. Based on these observations, explain whether this body could be classified as a dwarf planet and justify your answer.

Answer: Yes, it could be classified as a dwarf planet because it is nearly spherical in shape, orbits the Sun, and has a diameter consistent with known dwarf planets. Its inability to clear its orbit is inferred from its location in the Kuiper Belt, where many objects coexist.

Question 1: Explain the significance of studying dwarf planets in understanding the formation and evolution of the Solar System. Include at least three points in your answer. (6 marks)

Answer: Studying dwarf planets helps scientists understand the early conditions of the Solar System, as they are remnants of primordial material. Their composition and orbits provide clues about planetary formation processes and gravitational interactions. Additionally, analyzing their physical characteristics offers insights into the diversity and evolution of celestial bodies beyond the main planets.

Question 1: Discuss how understanding dwarf planets can contribute to advancements in space exploration technology.

Answer: Knowledge of dwarf planets aids in developing navigation and remote sensing technologies, preparing spacecraft for long-duration missions in varied gravitational environments, and designing instruments capable of analyzing distant celestial bodies.