Question

Why is Pluto classified as dwarf planet?

Answer 1

Pluto is classified as a dwarf planet because it has not cleared its orbit of other debris or objects. It is also smaller than the eight planets in the solar system and has a less dominant gravitational force. These factors led to its reclassification as a dwarf planet in 2006.

Answer 2

Pluto is classified as the dwarf planet because it is the smallest of all other planets and so, partially due to this reason, its gravitational force is also significantly less. 

Answer 3

Pluto is classified as a dwarf planet due to a redefinition of what constitutes a planet by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) in 2006. Prior to this reclassification, Pluto was considered the ninth planet in our solar system.

The IAU defined a planet as a celestial body that orbits the Sun, is spherical in shape, and has cleared its orbit of other debris. While Pluto meets the first two criteria, it fails to fulfill the third criterion. Pluto's orbit intersects with that of Neptune, and it shares its orbit with other objects in the Kuiper Belt, a region of the solar system beyond Neptune populated by numerous icy bodies.

As a result of this reclassification, Pluto was reclassified as a dwarf planet, a new category that includes other celestial bodies like Eris, Haumea, Makemake, and Ceres.

Answer 4

Pluto is classified as a dwarf planet because the International Astronomical Union (IAU) redefined the criteria for what constitutes a planet in 2006. According to these criteria, Pluto does not meet the requirements to be considered a full-fledged planet.

Answer 5

Pluto is classified as a dwarf planet because it does not meet the criteria for a full-sized planet. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) defines a planet as an object that orbits the sun, has sufficient mass to assume a nearly round shape, and has cleared its orbit of other objects. Pluto does not meet the third criterion, as its orbit is still filled with other objects.