Week 1 Assignment

Aliyah Gray

PART II: Class assignment (2 points per problem)

1. What is the Local Cluster? What are the three largest galaxies in our local group?
A local cluster is a vast cluster of galaxies. The three largest galaxies in our local
group are the Andromeda Galaxy, the Milky Way, and the Triangulum Galaxy
(M33).
2. What is the difference between a Galaxy Cluster and a Star Cluster? Which is larger?
Star clusters is a group of stars that are loosely held together by gravity. A galaxy
cluster is a group of solar systems and star clusters. A galaxy cluster is larger.
3. What is meant by the term “ecliptic” in astronomy?
The plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun.
4. What is the name of our closest star?
Alpha Centauri A
5. Rank each of the following from smallest to largest: Our Solar System, Local Group, The
Sun, Milky Way Galaxy, Earth, Jupiter.
Earth, Jupiter, The Sun, Solar System, Milky Way Galaxy, Local Group
6. Describe the difference between a hypothesis, a theory, and a law.
A hypothesis is an idea that can be tested. A theory is a very well tested
hypothesis described in words. A law is similar to a theory but is described in
mathematics rather than words.
7. What is 0.056 and 277600 in scientific notation?
5.6 x 10-2 2.776 x 102
8. What is 2.5 × 105 and 1.13 × 10-3 in standard notation?
250000 0.00113
9. Explain what is meant by the term “light-speed-minute.”
It is the distance light travels in space per minute
10. In the overview video I say “Mathematics can be used to describe physical laws.
However, physical laws cannot be predicted from Mathematics.” What does this mean?
Measurements are what predict physical laws and then mathematics help describe
the physical law. You can’t get/use mathematics without getting measurements
because that is where science starts at. (This confused me a lot)