TOPIC 8 B OBJECTIVES

THE EARTH IN SPACE

1. Describe the geocentric and heliocentric models of the solar system, and evaluate which model provides the simpler explanation for the apparent motion of celestial objects.

2 a. Tell the path of stars and planets as viewed from New York State.

b. Calculate the apparent rate of motion of celestial objects.

3. Define constellations.

4 a. Name and describe the shape of all natural orbits in our solar system.

b. Describe the location of the primary focus.

5 a. Define eccentricity.

b. Calculate eccentricity using the (ESRT).

6. Give an explanation for the cyclic change in the apparent diameter of the moon, Sun, and planets.

7. Compare the speed of a satellite with its distance from the primary focus.

8. Determine how changing the distance between two objects and/or changing the mass of one or both of the objects will affect the force between the two objects.

9. Analyze the Solar System Data Chart in the ESRT.

10. Compare the planets on our solar system in regards to temperature, surface characteristics, and atmosphere.

11. Explain why impact structures are much more obvious on the Moon, Mercury, and Mars than on Earth.

12 a. Identify the unit used to measure distances in the universe.

b. Compare the distance of the Earth to the Sun and other stars in the universe.

13 a. Define galaxy.

b. Describe the shape of the Milky Way Galaxy and the position of our solar system within the galaxy.

14. Describe the Big Bang theory.

15. List two pieces of evidence to support the Big Bang theory.

1)

2)

16. Describe the Doppler shift in regard to movement of celestial objects.

17. Compare the age of the Earth and solar system to the universe.

18. Determine three possible scenarios dealing with the future of the universe:

1)

2)

3)