Build a Solar System
A scaled model of the solar system can be built using the calculations provided in this site. After filling in the diameter of the sun being used in the activity, calculations appear for the diameter of each planet and distance from the sun. Distances of stars and galaxies and diameter of stars can also be caluclated. Often it is difficult for students to visualize the sizes and distances involved in the solar system. This activity allows them to enter the diameter of the sun they will use in their model and have the sizes and distances calculated for building a model of the solar system. Being able to build a model that includes distance helps students to get a better idea about the vastness of space.
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eduToolbox® is a resource-sharing portal developed by the Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation with collaborative support and funding from the Tennessee Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Education's Math & Science Partnership program.
