Planet Definition

A planet is a celestial body that (a) is by far the largest object in
its local population[1], (b) has sufficient mass for its self-gravity
to overcome rigid body forces so that it assumes a hydrostatic
equilibrium (nearly round) shape (c) does not produce more energy that
it absorbs from the sun over the life of the object.(d) The object must
lie close to the plane of the elliptic.


Some people want to have a requirement that the body does not produce
energy by any nuclear fusion mechanism. The problem with that is 2
billion years ago in Oklo, Gabon, Africa natural nuclear reactor was
formed when a uranium-rich mineral deposit became inundated with
groundwater that acted as a neutron moderator, and a strong chain
reaction took place.



I think we need a condition that prevents wandering celestial objects
from being considered planets.which is the object must lie close the
plane of the elliptic. That lets Pluto out. I like Pluto because when I
was young it was the most distant planet from the sun and now Neptune
is.

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Relevant Pages

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