How does the distance of a planet from the sun affect the temperature?

In summary, the question is how does the distance of a planet from the sun affect the temperature? The intensity of radiation varies inversely with distance, and this can be derived from the formula for the surface area of a sphere. However, other factors such as albedo, atmospheric composition, and core activity also play a role in determining temperature. Plate tectonic movement may also contribute to heat generation.
  • #1
ohxhowtragic
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my evil teacher is making me and my friend to do a 12 page report. and the question is "how does the distance of a planet from the sun affect the temperature?" i would really apperciate it. thanks.
 
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  • #2
As radiation propagates in all directions equally (in a sphere) the intensity of that radiation varies inversely with distance.

If radiation propagates in all directions equally, the intensity is strength of the source divided by the surface area of of the resulting sphere. You will be able to derive an expression fro the intesity per unit area of the sphere if you know the formula for the surface area of a sphere.
 
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  • #3
If it won't get you in trouble, you might also point out that distance is not by any means the only thing governing the temperature. You also have to factor in albedo and atmospheric composition. In the case of many planets, you also have the core activity generating heat. I suspect, but am not sure, that if it's rapid enough, plate tectonic movement will generate frictional and compression heat.
As Atomos said, your solar radiation (any radiation, and gravity for that matter), decreases as the square of the distance.
 

1. How does the distance of a planet from the sun affect its temperature?

The distance of a planet from the sun directly affects its temperature. The closer a planet is to the sun, the more heat and radiation it receives, leading to higher temperatures. On the other hand, the farther a planet is from the sun, the less heat and radiation it receives, resulting in lower temperatures.

2. Is the distance from the sun the only factor that affects a planet's temperature?

No, the distance from the sun is not the only factor that affects a planet's temperature. Other factors such as the composition of the planet's atmosphere, its tilt, and its rotation speed also play a role in determining its temperature.

3. Can a planet's distance from the sun change over time?

Yes, a planet's distance from the sun can change over time due to various factors such as gravitational pull from other planets, tidal forces, and changes in the planet's orbit. However, these changes are usually very gradual and do not drastically affect the planet's temperature.

4. Does the distance from the sun affect the temperature on both sides of a planet?

Yes, the distance from the sun affects the temperature on both sides of a planet. However, the side of the planet facing the sun will experience higher temperatures due to direct exposure to the sun's heat and radiation. The side facing away from the sun will have lower temperatures due to receiving less heat and radiation.

5. Can a planet's distance from the sun determine if it is habitable?

The distance from the sun is one of the factors that determine a planet's habitability, but it is not the only factor. Other factors such as the planet's atmosphere, composition, and presence of water also play a crucial role. Some planets that are farther from the sun, such as Mars, have the potential to be habitable with the right conditions.

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