Grade 8 Unit 06: Components of the Universe

1. 1. What unit do scientists use to measure distance in the universe? Why?
2. 2. What is the difference between absolute and apparent brightness?
3. 3. List these in order from smallest to largest: star, nebula, planetary system, galaxy, planet, Universe.
4. 4. What are galaxies? What shapes do they have? What are they made of?
5. 5. What is the shape of the Milky Way galaxy? Where does it get its name?
6. 6. What is the nearest star to Earth? What is the next closest star?
7. 7. What kind of tool is used to measure the color of stars? What can be determined by the color of the stars?
8. 8. How far into space have humans traveled? How far have humans sent probes?
9. 9. Why haven't humans explored more of the galaxy?

For number 10 and 11 use the linked electromagnetic chart

10. 10. What kind of wave has a wavelength of 7.8 x 10-10 m.
11. 11. What kind of wave has a frequency of 8.4 x 1012 Hz.