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Difficulty: MediumThe Solar System and Planets

While most planets in the solar system rotate on axes roughly perpendicular to their orbital paths, one planet has an extreme axial tilt of approximately 98∘98^\circ, causing it to rotate nearly on its side. Which planet exhibits this unusual rotational characteristic?

  1. A
    Neptune
  2. UranusAnswer
  3. C
    Saturn
  4. D
    Mars

Answer

Uranus is the planet that possesses an extreme axial tilt of approximately 98∘98^\circ, making it rotate almost entirely on its side.
Uranus has an extraordinary axial tilt of approximately 98∘98^\circ. As a result, its poles point almost directly toward the Sun at different points in its orbit, causing it to appear to roll on its side compared to the other planets.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the physical and rotational properties described in the question.
The target celestial body is characterized by an axial tilt of around 98∘98^\circ, resulting in retrograde, nearly horizontal rotation relative to its orbit.
Axial tilt determines how a planet is oriented relative to its orbital plane around the Sun.
2
Evaluate the axial tilts of the candidate planets.
Mars has a tilt of ≈25∘\approx 25^\circ, Saturn has ≈27∘\approx 27^\circ, Neptune has ≈28∘\approx 28^\circ, and Uranus has ≈98∘\approx 98^\circ.
Matching the specific orbital mechanics identifies the unique planet.
3
Conclude the correct planetary match.
Uranus is the only planet in the solar system with a tilt greater than 90∘90^\circ that causes it to effectively roll along its orbital path.
This distinct feature is hypothesized to be the result of a massive collision during the early formation of the solar system.

Key Concept

Planetary Axial Tilt and Rotational Characteristics
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

The Solar System and Planets

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