Answer:
Sun's greater mass results in a significant gravitational interaction with Mercury
Step-by-step explanation:
The gravitational interaction between two objects depends on their masses and the distance between them, as described by Newton's law of universal gravitation. In this case, the Sun is indeed more massive than Mercury, the innermost planet in our solar system.
The key points to consider are:
1. The Sun's Mass: The Sun is vastly more massive than Mercury. Its mass is approximately 330,000 times greater than that of Mercury.
2. Distance from the Sun: Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun in our solar system.
Given these facts, the gravitational interaction between Mercury and the Sun is significant. The Sun's gravitational pull on Mercury is what keeps the planet in orbit around the Sun. This gravitational force also affects Mercury's orbital speed and path.
In summary, the Sun's greater mass results in a significant gravitational interaction with Mercury, which is crucial for keeping Mercury in orbit around the Sun and determining its orbital characteristics.