Astronomy 120: Fall 2005

Homework 3: October 28/ 31 recitation

The Great Pluto Debate

Name ___________________________ Section _______

 

 

  In preparation for the Great Pluto Debate, fill in answers to Questions A and C before coming to recitation, but after reading the source material available on the Astro 120 homepage. During the debate, fill in answers to questions B and D, and then finish with question E. Hand this sheet in at the conclusion of the class.

 

 

  1. List two arguments in favor of the view that Pluto should continue to have the status of a bona-fide planet of our Solar System.

    1.  

       

       

       

    2.  

       

       

       

  2. List a third reason for Pluto remaining a planet that you had not thought of before that you heard from one of the other students in your section's Great Pluto Debate.

     

     

     

     

  3. List two arguments that Pluto really doesn't deserve being called a real planet.

    1.  

       

       

       

       

    2.  

       

       

       

  4. List a third reason that you had not thought of for why Pluto should be demoted - one that you heard from one of the other students in your section's Great Pluto Debate.

     

     

     

     

     

  5. Now, given what you have read, heard, and discussed, what is your opinion? Is it right to keep calling Pluto on of the "planets of our Solar System"? What about the newly-discovered bodies?