Astronomy Solar System and Planetary Science 2

Question 1

Which planet has the fastest rotation, completing a full spin in under 10 hours?

Accepted Answer

Jupiter

Answer

Jupiter rotates once about every 9.9 hours, the fastest of any planet in the Solar System.

Question 2

What is the name of the boundary beyond which the Sun's influence gives way to interstellar space?

Accepted Answer

Heliopause

Answer

The heliopause marks where the solar wind's pressure balances the interstellar medium.

Question 3

Which planet rotates on its side, with an axial tilt of about 98 degrees?

Accepted Answer

Uranus

Answer

Uranus is tilted roughly 98 degrees, likely due to a massive early collision.

Question 4

The Great Red Spot on Jupiter is best described as what?

Accepted Answer

A giant persistent storm

Answer

The Great Red Spot is a high-pressure anticyclonic storm that has raged for centuries.

Question 5

Which moon of Saturn has a thick nitrogen-rich atmosphere and liquid methane lakes?

Accepted Answer

Titan

Answer

Titan has a dense nitrogen atmosphere and stable surface lakes of liquid methane and ethane.

Astronomy Practice Test