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The asteroid icarus has an elliptical orbit that carries it between 0.19 and 1.97 au from the sun. What is the range of distances in astronomical units (au) that Icarus can be from the sun?

1) 0.19 to 1.97 au
2) 0.19 to 2.00 au
3) 0.00 to 1.97 au
4) 0.00 to 2.00 au

User Peace Wang
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The range of distances that Icarus can be from the Sun is 0.19 to 1.97 au.

Step-by-step explanation:

The range of distances in astronomical units (au) that Icarus can be from the sun is given by the difference between the maximum and minimum distances of its elliptical orbit. According to the information provided, Icarus travels between 0.19 and 1.97 au from the sun.

The correct answer is 1) 0.19 to 1.97 au. This range represents the span of distances that Icarus can achieve in its elliptical orbit, with the closest approach being 0.19 au and the farthest distance being 1.97 au. This choice accurately reflects the given data about Icarus' orbit.

Options 2), 3), and 4) are incorrect because they either include values (such as 2.00 au) beyond the specified maximum distance (1.97 au) or erroneously include 0.00 au, which is not within the defined range of Icarus' orbit.

Understanding the specific characteristics of celestial bodies' orbits is essential for accurately interpreting astronomical data, and in this case, recognizing the orbital range of Icarus is key to selecting the correct answer.

User Rubber Boots
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