Astronomers detect a gas giant exoplanet orbiting its host star on an eccentric orbit with a semimajor axis of 100 AU.This provides evidence for:
A) hot Jupiters.
B) eccentric disks.
C) scattering.
D) the snow line.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Scattering is a process that can lead to planets having highly eccentric orbits, as interactions with other planets or stellar objects can significantly alter their trajectories. The detection of a gas giant with an eccentric orbit at a distance of 100 AU from its host star suggests that scattering events have likely played a role in shaping its orbit.

Astronomers Detect a Gas Giant Exoplanet Orbiting Its Host Star