How Do Scientists Estimate How Old the Solar System Is

question 114

Multiple Choice

How do scientists estimate how old the solar system is?

• A) They look up the answer in a book.
• B) They make a guess: no one really knows how old the universe is.
• C) They measure the abundances of radioactive elements in meteorites, and use their half-lives to calculate the age.
• D) They measure the speeds and distances of galaxies, and calculate the time it took for them to travel that distance.
• E) They measure how fast the Sun is losing energy, and how much energy it has to lose.

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Definitions:

Consumption

The action of using up a resource or goods, often referring to the rate at which consumers purchase and use products and services.

Real Rate of Interest

The rate of interest an investor expects to receive after adjusting for inflation, indicating the real cost of borrowing.

Nominal Rate

The stated interest rate on a loan or financial instrument, not adjusted for inflation.

Inflation

A general increase in prices and fall in the purchasing value of money.