1. Contrast the inner planets with the outer planets. You should be able to list at least 3 differences.
  1. What theory explains the differences between these two groups of planets? ______
  1. How does the theory explain these differences?
  1. What other characteristics of the solar system does this theory explain? How does the theory explain them?
  1. Does the theory explain the formation of the moon? ______
  2. If not, what is the currently held theory for how the moon formed?
  1. What were the 2 previous theories of the moon’s formation and why were they replaced?
  1. Where is the asteroid belt?
  1. Why are scientists interested in studying asteroids and comets?
  1. What planet has the hottest surface temperature? Why is it so hot?
  1. How old is the solar system?
  1. What causes tides? When are tides the highest?
  1. Draw a diagram showing the positions of the sun, moon, and Earth during:
  1. a solar eclipse
  1. a lunar eclipse
  1. What is the phase of the moon during a solar eclipse? ______during a lunar eclipse? ______
  1. What is the geocentric theory?
  1. What is the heliocentric theory?
  1. Which of these (geocentric or heliocentric) replaced the other? Why was one rejected?
  1. What holds the planets in their orbits?
  1. Explain why we have night and day.
  1. Explain why we have different seasons throughout the year.
  1. What causes the phases of the moon?
  1. Draw a diagram to explain the phases of the moon.
  1. How many days are there between 2 successive full moons? ______
  1. How much of the moon is lit by the sun at any one time? ______Is it always the same portion of the moon? ______Why or why not?
  1. Why is there a half of the moon that we have never seen from Earth?
  1. What makes planets shine?
  1. Define solstice and equinox.
  1. What are the steps in order in the nebular theory?
  1. Be sure to review the homework questions.