Chapter 12: Problem 1

Mars passes closer to the Earth than Jupiter does, but with an Earth-based telescope it is easier to see details on Jupiter than on Mars. Why is this?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Jupiter shows more detailed when viewed from Earth than Mars does even though Mars is closer because Jupiter's significant larger size and brightness make it more noticeable.

Step by step solution

Understand the relative distances

Understand that Mars is closer to Earth than Jupiter is. However, the difference is not large enough to provide a significant advantage for Mars in terms of visibility. After all, space distances are immensely vast.

Consider the planets' sizes

Remember that there is a significant size difference between Mars and Jupiter. Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system, significantly larger than Mars.

Connect the size and the distance

One key factor in observing a distant object is its apparent size. This is determined by both the object's actual size and its distance. Despite Jupiter's larger distance, it's significant size can make it's apparent size larger than Mars' when observed from Earth.

Realise the brighter appearance of Jupiter

In addition to its larger size, Jupiter is often brighter than Mars as observed from Earth. This is due primarily to its more reflective atmosphere.

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Mars passes closer to the Earth than Jupiter does, but with an Earth-based telescope it is easier to see details on Jupiter than on Mars. Why is this?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand the relative distances

Consider the planets' sizes

Connect the size and the distance

Realise the brighter appearance of Jupiter

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