Which of the following pieces of observational evidence does our modern "solar nebula" theory of the formation of the solar system NOT explain directly?
A) the fact that all the planets revolve around the equator of the Sun in the same direction
B) the difference in the composition of the terrestrial and jovian planets
C) the ages of the oldest rocks on Earth, the Moon, and meteorites
D) the plane of the orbit of Pluto
E) the existence of comets in the outer solar system made mainly of frozen gases

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The solar nebula theory explains the overall structure of the solar system, including the fact that all planets revolve around the equator of the Sun in the same direction, the difference in composition between the terrestrial and jovian planets, the ages of the oldest rocks, and the existence of comets made mainly of frozen gases. However, the theory does not directly explain the plane of the orbit of Pluto, which is inclined at an angle to the plane of the ecliptic where the other planets orbit.

Which of the Following Pieces of Observational Evidence Does Our