New theory may explain how mystery space object Oumuamua came into being: astronomers

New theory may explain how mystery space object Oumuamua came into being: astronomers

Assessment

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Science, Biology, Physics

11th Grade - University

Hard

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Omuamua, an interstellar object, has puzzled scientists with its unusual shape and unexplained acceleration. Discovered by the Pan Stars Observatory in Hawaii in 2017, its name means 'a messenger from afar arriving first.' A study suggests that tidal forces from a host star may have fragmented its parent body, forming Omuamua's elongated shape. The object's dry surface contrasts with expectations of icy interstellar objects, possibly due to intense heat near the star. As Omuamua travels through the solar system, trapped water ice may vaporize, providing thrust and causing its gravity-defying acceleration.

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5 questions

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1.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What is the main reason scientists are puzzled by Omuamua?

Its shape and acceleration

Its size

Its distance from Earth

Its color

2.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

When was Omuamua first observed?

January 10th, 2019

December 25th, 2018

November 1st, 2016

October 19th, 2017

3.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What do researchers suggest about Omuamua's parent body?

It was a black hole

It was a planet

It had a close encounter with a host star

It was a single large comet

4.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What might explain Omuamua's dry surface?

It is covered in dust

It melted under intense heat near a star

It was formed in a cold region

It is made of metal

5.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

How could water ice beneath Omuamua's surface affect its movement?

By changing its color

By freezing and slowing it down

By vaporizing and creating thrust

By making it heavier