A Solar System body that has a composition similar to a comet,a strong magnetic field,and a radius about four times larger than Earth must have an average orbital radius closest to:
A) 1 AU.
B) 5 AU.
C) 30 AU.
D) 60 AU.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The description of the Solar System body being similar in composition to a comet indicates that it is likely an icy object. As the object has a strong magnetic field, it is likely to be a planetary body rather than a small comet. The fact that it has a radius about four times larger than Earth indicates that it is a relatively large object.

Objects with a strong magnetic field and a large radius are typically gas giants, such as Jupiter and Saturn in our Solar System. These planets have an average orbital distance of about 5 AU and 10 AU from the Sun, respectively. However, the question specifies that the object has a composition similar to a comet, which rules out a gas giant.

The next best option is a type of icy body known as a "centaur," which orbits between Jupiter and Neptune in the outer Solar System. Centaurs are thought to be composed of a mixture of ices and rock, similar to comets. Some centaurs are also known to have strong magnetic fields. The average orbital distance of centaurs is typically between 5 AU and 30 AU from the Sun, though some can have highly elliptical orbits that take them much farther out.

Given the information provided in the question, the best choice for the average orbital radius of the Solar System body is therefore C) 30 AU, which falls within the expected range for a typical centaur.

A Solar System Body That Has a Composition Similar to a Comet,a