Which of the following is an example of a constellation?

Enhance your Science Olympiad skills with our Science Word Test. Break down complex concepts using flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed hints and explanations. Be fully prepared for the ultimate challenge!

The Big Dipper is considered an example of a constellation because it is a recognizable pattern formed by a group of stars that are relatively close to each other in the night sky. Specifically, the Big Dipper is part of the larger constellation Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear.

Constellations are important in astronomy for navigation, storytelling, and historical significance, as they help in identifying stars and their positions in the sky. The Big Dipper, with its distinct shape resembling a ladle, is one of the most well-known asterisms in the Northern Hemisphere and serves as a useful pointer to locate other stars and constellations.

In contrast, the Milky Way is a galaxy composed of billions of stars, gases, and cosmic dust; the Hubble Space Telescope is an observational facility used to study distant celestial bodies; and a black hole is a region in space where the gravitational pull is so strong that nothing, including light, can escape from it. None of these options represent a specific pattern of stars used in the same way as a constellation does.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy