Directions: Use the information provided and your knowledge of Earth and Space Sciences to answer the following questions. Show all work where necessary.
Directions: Use the information provided and your knowledge of Earth and Space Sciences to answer the following questions. Show all work where necessary.
Figure 1. Bar Graph Representing the Surface Temperature of Planets
Source: https://virtualscienceteachers.org/bell-ringers-earth-science-graphs-and-cer/
The surface temperatures of the planets vary from more than 400 degrees on Mercury and Venus to below -200 degrees on the distant planets. The factors that determine the temperature are a complex balance between the amount of heat received and that lost. The heat received by a planet varies with its distance from the Sun, for it is the Sun's radiation which is by far the greatest source of planetary warming. There are additional sources of heat such as gravitational contraction which adds to the energy balance in Jupiter's atmosphere and also small contributions from radio-active decay. These effects are dwarfed, however, by the influx of energy from the Sun.
Figure 2. Diagram Representing the Surface Temperature of Planets
Source: http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/galleries/solar-system-temperatures
Explain why Mercury and Venus both have very high surface temperatures even though Venus is farther from the Sun.
Which of the following is the main reason outer planets like Uranus and Neptune are much colder than inner planets?
Based on the bar graph showing surface temperatures of planets, describe the relationship between distance from the Sun and average planetary temperature. Identify one exception and explain it.
Describe how planetary albedo influences surface temperature and provide one example from our solar system.
Which planet’s temperature is most strongly affected by internal heat sources rather than by sunlight?
Explain how Earth’s atmosphere moderates temperature compared to nearby planets like Mercury and Mars.
If an astronomer discovered a new planet just beyond Saturn, predict its likely surface temperature and explain your reasoning.
Claim:
Evidence:
Reasoning:
Explain how comparing planetary temperatures helps scientists model Earth’s energy balance and predict climate changes.