Astronomy
Astronomy
1st Edition
ISBN: 9781938168284
Author: Andrew Fraknoi; David Morrison; Sidney C. Wolff
Publisher: OpenStax
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Chapter 15, Problem 1E

Describe the main differences between the composition of Earth and that of the Sun.

Expert Solution & Answer
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To determine

To describe:

The main differences between the composition of the Sun and that of the Earth.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Sun is the only star present in the Solar system. The Earth along with the other planets revolve about the Sun in elliptical paths. There eight planets in the Solar system. The first four planets are Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars. There are terrestrial planets. The outer planets, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune are Jovian planets.

The main differences between the composition of the Earth and that of the Sun are:

1. Sun is composed of ionized gases (plasma) due to its extremely hot temperature whereas the Earth is a terrestrial planet. The elements are found mostly in liquid and solid state.

2. Sun is composed of light elements like Hydrogen and Helium with trace amounts of heavy metals. On the other hand, heavy metals can be found on the Earth

3. There is about 75% of Hydrogen and 25% Helium present in the Sun. Earth has composed of metallic rocks such as Iron and Nickel.

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