The nebular theory of the formation of the solar system successfully predicts all but one of the following. Which one does the theory not predict?
A) Planets orbit around the Sun in nearly circular orbits in a flattened disk.
B) the compositional differences between the terrestrial and jovian planets
C) the equal number of terrestrial and jovian planets (with the exception of Pluto)
D) the presence of asteroids and comets
E) the craters on the Moon

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nebular theory does not predict the equal number of terrestrial and jovian planets. In fact, it is just a coincidence that there happen to be four terrestrial and four jovian planets in our solar system, with Pluto being classified as a dwarf planet. The theory only explains the formation of the solar system from a collapsing cloud of gas and dust, and cannot predict the exact number or types of planets that will form.

The Nebular Theory of the Formation of the Solar System