An object in the solar system orbits the Sun and has enough mass that its gravity has pulled it into a spherical shape,but it does not have enough gravity to clear its neighborhood of orbiting debris.This object is classified as a(n):
A) comet nucleus.
B) asteroid.
C) meteoroid.
D) dwarf planet.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The object described in the question meets the criteria for a dwarf planet, which is defined by the International Astronomical Union as a celestial body that orbits the Sun, is spherical in shape, but has not cleared its orbit of other debris. This definition was established in 2006, and it led to the reclassification of Pluto from a planet to a dwarf planet. Therefore, option D, dwarf planet, is the correct answer.

An Object in the Solar System Orbits the Sun and Has