Average Surface Temperatures

Question 1

1:In a paragraph, briefly describe the process through which astronomers believe the Earth acquired its Moon.

2:Even though Venus is further from the Sun than Mercury, the average surface temperatures on Venus are hotter than those on Mercury. In a brief paragraph, explain how this can be the case.

3:In a paragraph, briefly describe why astronomers find Jupiter’s Moon Europa so interesting, especially when it comes to the possibility of life. In this paragraph, you should also explain how the interior of Europa remains so warm despite the fact that it is a relatively small object that should have cooled off long ago (but hasn’t).

4:Briefly list and describe some of the reasons why Pluto is now considered to be a Dwarf Planet rather than its previous classification as Planet.

5:In a brief paragraph, explain why astronomers believe small, terrestrial planets formed near the Sun and large, jovian planets formed further away from the Sun.

6:In a brief paragraph, explain why our solar system has an asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.

Question 2

You are to find a scientifically valid article about the chances of finding life in the universe.

• What is the difference between the Drake equation and the Seager equation? 100 words
• Do you think one is more useful than another? why or why not? 100 words
• Does either equation have an exact answer? why or why not? 100 words
• And the reference of the article.