Explorations: Introduction to Astronomy (Arny), 6th Edition

Chapter 6: The Earth

Problems

1
Given that Pluto's mass is 1.3 x 1025 grams and its radius is 1.1 x 108 centimeters, what is its average density? Does this indicate that Pluto has a large iron core like the Earth? Why?
2
Seismic waves are partly reflected when they cross a boundary such as that between the mantle and the liquid core. Suppose that a P wave has a constant velocity of 8.0 km/sec. Suppose further that 700 seconds (about 12 minutes) after an earthquake near the surface, a seismometer detects a reflected P wave. How far below the surface is the liquid core–mantle boundary? Compare your answer to the distance in figure 5.7. Hint: Remember this is an echo.
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