Astronomy Midterm Review

Front

Why does Earth have fewer craters than some of the other terrestrial planets?

Back

Earth has a thicker atmosphere than some of them, which burns up smaller meteoroids before they can impact the surface.

Front

What are regions of dark, smooth, ancient beds of basaltic lava called?

Back

Maria.

Front

What is the name of the closest star to Earth?

Back

Sun.

Front

Which planet is known as the 'Blue Planet'?

Back

Earth.

Front

What is a constellation?

Back

A constellation is a group of visible stars that form a pattern when viewed from Earth.

Front

What is the primary component of the Sun?

Back

Hydrogen, which makes up about 74% of its mass.

Front

What is the difference between a planet and a star?

Back

A planet orbits a star and does not produce its own light, while a star generates light and heat through nuclear fusion.

Front

What is the term for the path that a planet takes around the Sun?

Back

Orbit.

Front

What is the largest planet in our solar system?

Back

Jupiter.

Front

What is the term for the apparent movement of stars due to the Earth's rotation?

Back

Diurnal motion.