Which one of the following bests describes Pluto?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

When evaluating Pluto's description, it's helpful to recall historical and current classifications in planetary science.
Option 1: 'A planet' — This is not accurate under modern definitions. Pluto was reclassified from a planet to a 'dwarf planet' by the IAU in 2006 due to its size, orbital characteristics, and the presence of other similar bodies in its neighborhood. So labeling Pluto as a full planet is incorrect.
Option 2: 'A planetoid' — Historically, the term planetoid has been used to describe small planetary bodies that orbit the Sun, including Pluto before the 2006 IAU decision. In many educational contexts, Pluto is still described as a planetoid to reflect its small size and planetary nature-like characteristics. This option captures Pluto's status more accurately than calling it a full planet, while not implying it is a natural satellite.
Option 3: 'A moon' — A moon is a natural satellite orbiting a planet. Pluto orbits the Sun, not a planet, and Pluto itself does not orbit a larger planet as a moon; thus describing Pluto as a moon is incorrect.
Option 4: 'A satellite' — The term satellite can refer to any object orbiting another body, including artificial satellites or natural satellites of planets. Since Pluto orbits the Sun and is not a moon of a planet, calling it a satellite is inaccurate in this context.
Overall, among the given choices, 'A planetoid' best aligns with Pluto’s classification as a small, planet-like body that is not a major planet in the solar system.

My LMS Subjects Quiz Topic 3: Formation of the solar system

Which one of the following bests describes Pluto?

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