The asteroid Gaspra (see Figure 4-7,Comins,Discovering the Essential Universe,6th ed.)is typical of most asteroids in that it is:
A) potato-shaped with a smooth, metallic surface.
B) spherical and densely covered with craters.
C) potato-shaped with large and small craters.
D) spherical and deformed by thermal activity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The asteroid Gaspra, like most asteroids, is potato-shaped and has large and small craters on its surface. It is not spherical or smooth, ruling out options A and D. Option B describes a type of asteroid known as a "rubble pile," which Gaspra is not.

The Asteroid Gaspra (See Figure 4-7,Comins,Discovering the Essential Universe,6th Ed