Lesson 1: Big Ball of Gas Solar Nebula Theory

Do Now Write Agree or Disagree on the line to the left of each statement. Then give your reasoning for your answer. ____ All planets are revolving around the Sun in a straight line. ____ There is no difference between the size of the solar system and the universe. ____ The Sun produces energy by a process known as fusion. ____ Objects can spontaneously fall into orbit. ____ An explosion created the sun.

Essential Question How does our solar system provide evidence of the solar nebula theory?

You will be able to: Use photographs showing various distance scales to develop an understanding of the process of solar system formation. Recognize that gravity is the driving force behind solar system formation. Recognize that the matter and the elements that make up a nebula are conserved during the formation of a solar system. Recognize that density of the elements plays a role in the arrangement of the formation of a solar system.

Prepare for the Activity Work in groups of four.

Discussion Notes The force of gravity is responsible for the condensation of interstellar dust to form stars and their systems. Scientific knowledge increases with developments in technology that allow more data to be gathered and analyzed. The level of general acceptance for a scientific idea depends directly on the quantity of supporting evidence.

Discussion Notes (cont.)

The Orion Nebula stretches 24 light years across. Light travels at 3x10 8 meters per second. There are 86,400 seconds per day and 31,536,000 seconds per year. That means that in one year light travels about 9,460,800,000,000,000 meters… almost 6 trillion miles!

Wrap Up How does our solar system provide evidence of the solar nebula theory? Stray rocks and dust that had not fallen into the Sun pounded the planets and their moons. Astronomers have also discovered flattening dust clouds around young stars that are beyond our solar system.

Check-in- Exit Ticket Explain the solar nebula theory in 3 steps. Remember to begin it with the Big Bang Theory. Step 1Step 2Step 3 Big Bang Theory