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Chapter 7: Problem 39

There are no asteroids with an atmosphere. Discuss why not.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Asteroids do not have an atmosphere because they lack the necessary gravitational force due to their small size and mass to attract and hold gases. Additionally, their often irregular and jagged landscape makes it difficult to retain an atmosphere.

Step by step solution

01

Understand atmosphere definition

An atmosphere is defined as a layer or a set of layers of gases surrounding a planet or other material body, that is held in place by the gravity of that body. An atmosphere is more likely to be retained if the gravity it is subject to is high and the temperature of the atmosphere is low.
02

Discuss planetary atmosphere

Many planets in our solar system, like Earth, have atmosphere because they have enough mass to have strong gravity. That gravity pulls in gases and dust to form an atmosphere. The gravity also prevents these gases from escaping into the space.
03

Describe characteristics of asteroids

Asteroids, on the other hand, are much smaller than planets. They don't have enough mass to generate the necessary gravity required to hold down an atmosphere. Their relatively small gravity can't pull in gases or dust, nor can it prevent these materials from escaping.
04

Discuss asteroid landscape

The landscape of asteroids is also a factor. They are often irregular in shape, with jagged surfaces that can make it harder to retain an atmosphere.
05

Conclusion

In conclusion, asteroids don't have an atmosphere because they lack two of the essential conditions necessary for one: enough mass to generate the necessary gravity and a sustainable temperature.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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