Question

student response: respond to the following prompt on a separate sheet of notebook paper. based on the data presented on the differences between planets and dwarf planets, what should pluto be classified as: a planet or dwarf planet? cite evidence to support your claim.

Explanation:

The question pertains to the classification of Pluto in the context of planetary science. Planets and dwarf - planets have distinct criteria for classification. Pluto is classified as a dwarf planet because it orbits the Sun, has enough mass to assume a nearly round shape, but has not cleared its orbit of other debris.

Answer:

Pluto should be classified as a dwarf planet. Evidence: It orbits the Sun and has a nearly round shape due to its mass, but it has not cleared its orbital neighborhood of other objects.