Plutoid definitions
| Word backwards | diotulp |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The word "plutoid" is a noun. |
| Syllabic division | plu-toid |
| Plural | The plural of the word plutoid is plutoids. |
| Total letters | 7 |
| Vogais (3) | u,o,i |
| Consonants (4) | p,l,t,d |
A plutoid is a type of celestial body that is defined by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) as a dwarf planet located beyond Neptune in the outer solar system. Originally known as trans-Neptunian objects, plutoids are celestial bodies that have sufficient mass for their gravity to pull them into a nearly round shape, but have not cleared their orbits of other debris.
Plutoids share characteristics with both planets and asteroids, but they are not considered full-fledged planets due to their inability to meet all the criteria set by the IAU for planetary status. In order to be classified as a plutoid, a celestial body must be in orbit around the sun, have sufficient mass for self-gravity to overcome rigid body forces, and it must not be a satellite. Additionally, it must have cleared its orbit of debris.
Discovery and Classification
Plutoids were first discovered in the early 21st century as advancements in telescopic technology allowed astronomers to detect more objects in the outer solar system. The IAU established the category of plutoids in 2006 when they redefined the criteria for classifying celestial bodies. Pluto, Eris, and Haumea are currently recognized as plutoids.
Characteristics of Plutoids
Plutoids are typically small, icy bodies that are composed of rock and various ices such as methane, ammonia, and water. They have eccentric orbits that often take them far from the sun, resulting in extremely cold surface temperatures. Despite their small size, plutoids can have moons orbiting them, adding to their complexity.
Plutoids are an essential element in the study of the outer solar system as they provide valuable insights into the formation and evolution of our cosmic neighborhood. By studying the composition, structure, and dynamics of plutoids, astronomers can piece together the history of our solar system and gain a deeper understanding of the processes that shape celestial bodies.
Future Exploration
As technology continues to advance, there is growing interest in exploring and studying plutoids up close. Missions such as New Horizons, which provided valuable data on Pluto, have sparked curiosity about other plutoids in the outer reaches of our solar system. Future missions may unravel more mysteries surrounding these enigmatic celestial bodies.
Plutoid Examples
- Scientists study various plutoids in our solar system.
- The dwarf planet Pluto is classified as a plutoid.
- Plutoids are celestial bodies beyond Neptune.
- Some astronomers believe there may be more undiscovered plutoids.
- New Horizons spacecraft provided valuable information about plutoids.
- The term "plutoid" was officially recognized by the IAU in 2008.
- Plutoids are found in the Kuiper Belt.
- Makemake and Haumea are examples of plutoids in our solar system.
- Plutoids are smaller than planets but larger than asteroids.
- Studying plutoids helps us understand the formation of our solar system.