Planeta

High school (ages 12+)
Space & Astronomy

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/planeta

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the IAU definition criteria?Orbits the Sun, hydrostatic equilibrium, cleared orbital neighborhood
2. What is the heliocentric model proponent?Nicolaus Copernicus
3. What is a planet according to the IAU?A planet must orbit the Sun, be round because its gravity pulls it into shape, and have cleared its orbit of other objects.
4. Why does Pluto not count as a planet?Pluto hasn't cleared its orbit, so it is classified as a dwarf planet instead of a full planet.

Hydrostatic Equilibrium: The balance between gravity pulling inward and internal pressure pushing outward, resulting in a spherical shape.
Exoplanet: A planet that orbits a star outside of our solar system.
Biosignature: A substance or characteristic that provides evidence of past or present life.
Accretion: The process by which celestial bodies grow by accumulating smaller particles and objects.