This topic contains a solution. Click here to go to the answer
« previous next »

Author Question: Why do we measure some distances in astronomy in light-years and some in astronomical units? What ... (Read 70 times)

bb

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 544
on: Jul 27, 2018
Why do we measure some distances in astronomy in light-years and some in astronomical units?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Why would the English system of units be more useful if a foot contained 10 inches?
 
  What will be an ideal response?


Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question
Marked as best answer by a Subject Expert

cat123

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 310
Reply #1 on: Jul 27, 2018
Answer to Question 1

Consider using millimeters to describe the distance between New York and California, 3,920,000,000 millimeters. This distance is correct, but it is far more convenient to state the distance as 3920 kilometers. Distances in astronomy are huge when compared to distances we measure on Earth. It is simpler and more convenient to use larger distance units for discussion and calculations.

Answer to Question 2

Because our number system is base-10, having units based on 10 simplifies calculations. Fractions could be expressed in decimal notation. Prefixes could be used, such as milli-, centi-, kilo- to express lengths of varying orders of magnitudes.


bb

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 544
Reply #2 on: Jul 27, 2018
Thanks


cat123

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 310
Reply #3 on: Jul 27, 2018
Welcome :)


« previous next »
 

Did you know?

The Babylonians wrote numbers in a system that used 60 as the base value rather than the number 10. They did not have a symbol for "zero."

Did you know?

Computer programs are available that crosscheck a new drug's possible trade name with all other trade names currently available. These programs detect dangerous similarities between names and alert the manufacturer of the drug.

Did you know?

Earwax has antimicrobial properties that reduce the viability of bacteria and fungus in the human ear.

Did you know?

Intradermal injections are somewhat difficult to correctly administer because the skin layers are so thin that it is easy to accidentally punch through to the deeper subcutaneous layer.

Did you know?

In the ancient and medieval periods, dysentery killed about ? of all babies before they reach 12 months of age. The disease was transferred through contaminated drinking water, because there was no way to adequately dispose of sewage, which contaminated the water.

Evidence that Light Travels at a Finite Speed Evidence that Light Travels at a Finite Speed
Apply oil or lotion to the entire leg with effleurage. Use light to medium pressure to warm ... Apply oil or lotion to the entire leg with effleurage. Use light to medium pressure to warm ...
Summary view of the light reactions as they occur in the thylakoid Summary view of the light reactions as they occur in the thylakoid
Climate change occurs over millions of years Climate change occurs over millions of years
Testing the corneal light reflex Testing the corneal light reflex
Earth 240 Million Years Ago Earth 240 Million Years Ago
Video: Angiotensin II - kidneys, adrenal glands and dehydration

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library