Astronomy Basic Astronomy 2

Question 1

Which planet is closest to the Sun?

Accepted Answer

Mercury

Answer

Mercury is the innermost planet, orbiting nearest to the Sun.

Question 2

What is the primary source of the Sun's energy?

Accepted Answer

Nuclear fusion

Answer

The Sun produces energy by fusing hydrogen into helium in its core.

Question 3

Which of these is classified as a dwarf planet?

Accepted Answer

Pluto

Answer

Pluto was reclassified as a dwarf planet in 2006.

Question 4

What causes the phases of the Moon?

Accepted Answer

The relative positions of the Sun, Earth, and Moon

Answer

Phases result from how much of the Moon's sunlit side faces Earth as it orbits.

Question 5

Which galaxy contains our solar system?

Accepted Answer

Milky Way

Answer

Earth and the Sun reside within the Milky Way galaxy.

Astronomy Practice Test