Physics Earth and Solar System

Why is it summer in the Northern Hemisphere?

In summer, the Northern Hemisphere tilts towards the sun, and therefore spends more time in light than it darkness, which consequently heats up the land. Moreover, the Sun rays are focused on a smaller area, which means the heat is more direct.

Why is it winter in the Northern Hemisphere?

In winter, the Northern Hemisphere spends less time in sunlight so the land does not get heated up for a long time. Moreover, the sun rays cover a larger area of land, which means the heat is more spread out

Equation for orbital speed?

Speed = 2 x π x radius/Time

What type of orbit does a dwarf planet or comet typically have?

Elliptical Orbit

What are the planets closest to the sun called (and size)?

Rocky, small planets

What are the planets further away to the sun called (and size)?

Gaseous, large planets

Why are the planets closest to the sun rocky?

Due to the accretion model, interstellar gas was orbiting the sun. The areas around the sun was extremely hot, and the lighter elements were vaporised, but the heavier elements remained, so therefore the planets nearer the sun are solid and rocky

Why are the planets further away from the Sun gaseous?

Due to the accretion model, interstellar gas was orbiting the Sun. The areas around the sun were extremely hot, so the lighter elements were vaporised and gathered further away from the sun, which formed gaseous giant planets

How was the Sun created (Accretion Model)?

In the beginning of our solar system, there was a big could of rotating interstellar gas and dust. Over time due to gravity, everything was brought closer together, until in the center matter collapsed and became very dense. It got so dense that the pressure and temperature increased so much that it eventually formed the Sun