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An introduction to exoplanets
An introduction to exoplanets

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2.1  Sizes of the Solar System planets

Activity 1 will help you to visualise the relative sizes of the planets in our Solar System.

Activity _unit3.2.1 Activity 1  DIY edible Solar System

Timing: Allow about 10 minutes, plus time for shopping (and eating)

You need:

  • 1 watermelon or similar large melon
  • 1 large grapefruit
  • 1 dessert apple
  • 1 lime
  • 2 gooseberries
  • 1 blueberry
  • 1 white/red/black currant (or peppercorn).

You can substitute any of these for fruit/vegetables of a similar size.

Using information from the internet, try to match each piece of fruit with the correct planet. (Hint: which is the largest planet? Which two planets are almost identical in size?)

When you think you’ve got it right you can check your answer here:

Answer

Described image
Figure _unit3.2.1 Figure 2  A fruit salad Solar System showing the approximate relative sizes of the planets