Pluto's Atmosphere: Estimating Temp

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In summary, telescopes observed Pluto in 1988 and found that its atmospheric density at 50 km above its surface is one-third of the surface density. With a known mass of 1.5 x 10^22 kg and radius of 1200 km, spectroscopic data revealed that Pluto's atmosphere is mostly nitrogen. Using the barometric formula, the estimated temperature of Pluto's atmosphere is 108K. However, the question may be inaccurate as NASA states that Pluto's atmosphere is mostly methane. The equation provided in the conversation may be a more complex way to calculate atmospheric density.
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Homework Statement



In 1988 telescopes viewed Pluto as it crossed in front of a distant star. As the star emerged from behind the planet, light from the star was slightly dimmed as it went through Pluto's atmosphere. The observations indicated that the atmospheric density at a height of 50 km above the surface of Pluto is about one-third the density at the surface. The mass of Pluto is known to be about 1.5 1022 kg, and its radius is about 1200 km. Spectroscopic data indicate that the atmosphere is mostly nitrogen (N2). Estimate the temperature of Pluto's atmosphere.

Homework Equations


No idea

The Attempt at a Solution


No idea... I don't even know where to start. I tried looking up the average density of Pluto and it turns out this question is completely bogus anyway because according to NASA Pluto's atmosphere is mainly methane.
 
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No, I've never seen that before. I feel as though it's supposed to be easier than that. THe answer is supposedly 108K, but I'm not sure how to get it at all.
 

FAQ: Pluto's Atmosphere: Estimating Temp

What is the average temperature on Pluto?

The average temperature on Pluto is estimated to be around -400 degrees Fahrenheit (-240 degrees Celsius). However, the temperature can vary depending on location and time of day.

How is the temperature on Pluto's atmosphere estimated?

The temperature on Pluto's atmosphere is estimated using data collected by telescopes, spacecraft, and computer simulations. Scientists use infrared measurements to determine the temperature of Pluto's surface, while spacecraft observations and computer models are used to estimate the temperature of its atmosphere.

How does the temperature on Pluto's atmosphere compare to other planets?

Pluto's atmosphere is much colder than the atmospheres of other planets in our solar system. For example, the average temperature on Earth is around 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius), making Pluto's atmosphere over 400 degrees Fahrenheit colder.

Is there any evidence of changing temperatures on Pluto's atmosphere?

Yes, there is evidence of changing temperatures on Pluto's atmosphere. This is due to the fact that Pluto's orbit is elliptical, meaning it varies in distance from the sun. As Pluto gets closer to the sun, its atmosphere warms up and expands, and as it moves further away, it cools and contracts.

How does the temperature on Pluto's atmosphere affect its composition?

The extremely low temperature on Pluto's atmosphere affects its composition in several ways. It causes gases such as nitrogen and methane to freeze and form a surface layer, and it also affects the behavior of these gases in the atmosphere. The temperature also plays a role in the formation of clouds and other atmospheric phenomena on Pluto.

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