Question

How does paragraph 4 help to develop the article? "In December 2011, the Kepler space mission announced the discovery of Kepler-22b. This planet is at the center of the habitable zone of the star around which it orbits. The planet shares many characteristics with Earth, including a star that some at NASA have called the “twin” of our sun. Located about 600 light years from Earth, Kepler-22b is double the size of Earth but smaller than Neptune. Its 290-day year—the amount of time it takes to completely circle its star one time—is similar to Earth’s 365-day orbit around the sun. Most remarkable, however, is the planet’s perfect Earth-like temperature: 72° Fahrenheit (22° Celsius). Further studies from the ground will be necessary before scientists can determine whether Kepler-22b has an atmosphere or even a solid surface. However, Kepler-22b’s ideal location in a Goldilocks zone and its perfect temperature for the presence of water have many scientists considering the idea that, like Earth, this planet may be able to support life . . . and perhaps already does!¨

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

Paragraph 4 helps to develop the article by providing more details about the characteristics of Kepler-22b that make it a potential candidate for supporting life. The paragraph specifically discusses the ideal location of the planet within the habitable zone of its star, its similarities to Earth in terms of its orbit and temperature, and the possibility of water on its surface. The paragraph also mentions that further studies will be necessary to determine whether the planet has an atmosphere or a solid surface. By providing these details, the paragraph helps to build excitement and anticipation for the possibility of life on Kepler-22b and highlights the importance of continued research and exploration of the planet. Overall, this paragraph adds depth and context to the article's discussion of the discovery of Kepler-22b and its potential as a habitable planet.