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Chapter 1: Problem 17

How is an astronomical unit (AU) defined? Give an example of a situation in which this unit of measure would be convenient to use.

Short Answer

Expert verified
An astronomical unit (AU) is defined as the average distance from Earth to the Sun, approximately 149,597,870.7 kilometers. This unit of measure is quite useful when measuring distances within our solar system, e.g., the distance from Earth to Mars can be expressed conveniently in terms of AU (between 0.37 and 2.68 AU).

Step by step solution

01

Definition of Astronomical Unit (AU)

An Astronomical Unit (AU) is a unit of length often used in astronomy and is approximately equal to the mean distance between the Earth and the Sun. It is defined by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) as exactly 149,597,870.7 kilometers.
02

Application of Astronomical Unit

An Astronomical Unit would be a convenient unit to use when measuring distances within our solar system. For instance, when describing the distance from Earth to other planets. The distance between Earth and Mars, for example, is often expressed in Astronomical Units. At its closest approach, Mars is 0.37 AU from Earth, and at its farthest, it's about 2.68 AU away. Using AU simplifies these large distances and makes them easier to comprehend.

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