Question

the distance from the earth to the sun equals 1 au. neptune is 30 au from the sun. how far is neptune from the earth? \boxed{} au

Explanation:

Step1: Identify two scenarios

Earth and Neptune can be on the same side of the Sun, or opposite sides.

Step2: Calculate same-side distance

Subtract Earth-Sun distance from Neptune-Sun distance: $30 - 1 = 29$ AU

Step3: Calculate opposite-side distance

Add Earth-Sun distance to Neptune-Sun distance: $30 + 1 = 31$ AU

Answer:

29 AU or 31 AU