What combination of forces releases the gas and dust of a comet when it approaches the Sun?
A) radiation pressure and electromagnetic energy
B) electromagnetic energy and solar wind
C) solar flares and nuclear fission
D) gravitational energy and solar wind
E) solar wind and radiation pressure

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The gas and dust of a comet are released primarily due to the solar wind and radiation pressure from the Sun. As a comet approaches the Sun, it heats up, causing its ices to sublimate (turn directly from solid to gas). The solar wind (a stream of charged particles emitted by the Sun) and radiation pressure (the force exerted by the Sun's electromagnetic radiation) then carry away the gas and dust, forming the comet's tail.

What Combination of Forces Releases the Gas and Dust of a Comet