Gaps in the asteroid belt (often called Kirkwood gaps)are caused by
A)tidal forces from the Sun.
B)tidal forces from Jupiter.
C)the competing gravitational tugs of Mars and Jupiter.
D)orbital resonances with Jupiter.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The gaps in the asteroid belt, known as Kirkwood gaps, are caused by the asteroids being in resonance with the orbit of Jupiter. As the asteroids orbit the Sun, Jupiter's gravitational influence disrupts their orbits, creating gaps where there are no asteroids. These gaps occur at specific distances from the Sun, corresponding to orbital resonances with Jupiter.

Gaps in the Asteroid Belt (Often Called Kirkwood Gaps)are Caused