Process of Science: Why did astronomers identify Pluto as a ...

[colton]

Process of Science: Why did astronomers identify Pluto as a planet from its discovery? What scientific evidence led to its reclassification?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Masses of the planets are easiest to determine if
 
  A) they are terrestrial and the extra size of the planet's disk can be measured.
  B) they are jovian and their oblateness can be found.
  C) they have natural satellites whose motions can be precisely measured.
  D) they are dense and easily deflect the path of passing spacecraft.
  E) they move rapidly and their periods are easily measured.

[alexisweber49]

Answer to Question 1

Pluto was a large object in the solar system, and not near the asteroid belt, so it was regarded as a planet. New evidence contradicting this classification included the discovery of the Kuiper Belt, in particular the discovery of other large KBOs.

Answer to Question 2

C

[colton]

TY

[alexisweber49]

You're welcome