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In Physics / High School | 2025-07-03

What is an astronomical unit (AU)?
A. the diameter of the Sun
B. the radius of the Sun
C. the average distance between Earth and its moon
D. the average distance between Earth and the Sun

Asked by madisongarcia537

Answer (2)

An astronomical unit (AU) is a unit of length used to measure distances in space.
It is defined as the average distance between the Earth and the Sun.
The average distance between the Earth and the Sun is approximately 149.6 million kilometers (93 million miles).
Therefore, the correct answer is the average distance between Earth and the Sun. the average distance between Earth and the Sun ​

Explanation

Understanding the Astronomical Unit An astronomical unit (AU) is a unit of length used to measure distances in space. Let's examine the options provided to determine the correct definition.

Analyzing the Options The options are:

The diameter of the Sun

The radius of the Sun

The average distance between Earth and its moon

The average distance between Earth and the Sun

Identifying the Correct Definition The astronomical unit is defined as the average distance between the Earth and the Sun. Therefore, the correct answer is: the average distance between Earth and the Sun

Final Answer The astronomical unit (AU) is approximately 149.6 million kilometers (93 million miles). It's a fundamental unit for measuring distances within our solar system.


Examples
Understanding the astronomical unit is crucial in astronomy. For example, when we say that Mars is 1.5 AU from the Sun, it means Mars' average distance from the Sun is 1.5 times the average distance between Earth and the Sun. This helps astronomers easily compare distances between planets and other celestial objects within our solar system, making it easier to grasp the scale of our cosmic neighborhood.

Answered by GinnyAnswer | 2025-07-03

An astronomical unit (AU) is defined as the average distance between the Earth and the Sun, which is approximately 149.6 million kilometers. This measurement helps astronomers express distances in the solar system intuitively. Thus, the correct answer is: the average distance between Earth and the Sun.
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Answered by Anonymous | 2025-07-04

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