- Analyze the physical properties of the Sun, which is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium and has a mass of approximately \(1.989 \times 10^{30} \text{ kg}\).
- Evaluate each provided table against these scientific facts.
- Identify that only the table specifying "mostly hydrogen and helium gas" with a mass of \(1.989 \times 10^{30} \text{ kg}\) correctly describes the Sun.
- Conclude that the second option is the accurate choice: \(\boxed{\text{Table 2}}\).
Explanation
- Analysis of the Sun's Physical Properties
The Sun is the star at the center of our solar system. According to standard astronomical observations and physical laws, the Sun is composed primarily of hydrogen and helium, which account for about 98% of its mass, with smaller amounts of heavier elements like oxygen, carbon, neon, and iron. Its mass is measured at approximately \(1.989 \times 10^{30} \text{ kg}\). We compare this information against the provided options.
- Evaluation of Provided Data Tables
- Table 1 describes an object composed mostly of frozen nitrogen with a mass of \(258.9 \times 10^{18} \text{ kg}\). This description is characteristic of a small icy moon, not a star.
- Table 2 describes an object composed mostly of hydrogen and helium gas with a mass of \(1.989 \times 10^{30} \text{ kg}\). This matches the known composition and mass of the Sun.
- Table 3 describes an object made of dust, metals, and rock with a mass of \(6.4 \times 10^{23} \text{ kg}\). This is characteristic of a terrestrial planet like Mars.
- Table 4 describes an object with a central iron core and rocky mantle similar to Earth, with a mass of \(4.9 \times 10^{24} \text{ kg}\). This is characteristic of a terrestrial planet like Venus.
- Conclusion
Based on the comparison between established astrophysical facts and the given data, only Table 2 accurately represents the composition and mass of the Sun. Therefore, the second option is the correct one. The final answer is \(\boxed{\text{Table 2}}\).
Examples
Understanding the physical properties of stars, such as the Sun, is fundamental to astronomy and astrophysics. By identifying the composition and mass of the Sun, we can deduce its classification as a G-type main-sequence star. This knowledge allows scientists to model stellar evolution, determine the lifespans of stars, and understand the environment that allows life to exist on Earth, as the Sun provides the necessary energy and heat. Such classifications help researchers categorize thousands of other stars in our galaxy based on their mass and spectral signatures, contributing to our overall understanding of the universe.