An Astronomy Writing Assignment
In this assignment we are going to compare what we have learned about Earth to the Jovian planets. For this assignment I would like for you to answer the following questions:
- How does the density of the Jovian planets compare to Earth and what is the reason for this?
- How is the structure and composition of the atmospheres of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune different from Earth’s?
- How is the internal structure (cores) Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune similar to and different from Earth’s?
- How are the magnetospheres of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune similar to and different from Earth’s and what causes them?
Each answer should be about a paragraph in length. Make sure to answer the questions in your own words–I’m not looking for a word for word explanation from the book or the bullet points at the end of the chapter.
Each answer is worth up to 5 points. The characteristics of a 5 point answer are:
- The question is answered correctly (1-2 sentences)
- There is extensive is elaboration to support/illustrate the answer (3-4 sentences)
- The spelling and use of conventions (capitalization, punctuation) is correct. Proper grammar is used (sentences flow well when read aloud).
- The writing proceeds in a logical fashion–it is straight and to the point. There is no filler or unnecessary information
Here is an example of a 5 point answer for a question in earth science: “What is a composite volcano”?
A composite volcano is made of alternating layers of hardened lava and compacted ash. A composite volcano is broad at the base and gets steeper with altitude. Composite volcanoes form from alternating quiet and explosive eruptions. Quiet eruptions have gentle flows of lava which harden to form the broad base. Explosive eruptions have ash and other pyroclastic materials that build up to form the steep top. Mt. St. Helens is an example of a composite volcano.