Question

reading reflection: how big is big? how far is far? record ideas from the book that support each statement. 1. earth is a big planet. 2. earth is a small planet. 3. earth is far from the sun. 4. earth is close to the sun. 5. how is it possible for something to seem both big and small or both far and close?

Explanation:

1. Earth has a large mass and diameter compared to some other planets in the solar - system. It has a diverse range of ecosystems and large landmasses.
2. Earth is much smaller than gas giants like Jupiter and Saturn. In the context of the entire universe, Earth is minuscule.
3. The average distance from Earth to the Sun is about 150 million kilometers. It takes light about 8 minutes and 20 seconds to travel from the Sun to Earth.
4. Earth is the third planet from the Sun. Compared to outer - solar - system planets like Neptune or Pluto, it is close to the Sun.
5. Perception of size and distance depends on the reference point. For example, compared to a human, Earth is huge, but compared to the Sun, it is small. In terms of distance, Earth is far from the Sun in terms of human travel capabilities, but close in the context of the size of the galaxy.

Answer:

1. Earth has a large mass and diameter; diverse ecosystems and large landmasses.
2. Smaller than gas giants; minuscule in the universe.
3. Average distance of about 150 million km; light takes 8 min 20 s to travel.
4. Third planet from the Sun; close compared to outer - solar - system planets.
5. Depends on the reference point for size and distance.