Makemake

Makemake, also known as (136472) Makemake, is a dwarf planet in our solar system. It was discovered in 2005 and is one of the five recognized dwarf planets, along with Pluto, Eris, Haumea, and Ceres. Makemake is named after the creator of humanity and the god of fertility in the mythology of the Rapa Nui people of Easter Island.

Physical Characteristics

Makemake is a relatively large and bright object, with a diameter of about two-thirds that of Pluto. Its surface is covered in frozen methane, ethane, and possibly nitrogen, giving it a reddish-brown color. Like Pluto, it resides in the Kuiper Belt, a region of icy bodies beyond the orbit of Neptune.

Orbital and Rotational Characteristics

Makemake orbits the Sun at an average distance of about 45 astronomical units (AU), with one AU being the average distance between the Earth and the Sun. It takes approximately 310 Earth years to complete one orbit around the Sun. Its rotational period (length of day) is not yet precisely known.

Study Guide

1. What is the origin of the name "Makemake"?
2. How does the size of Makemake compare to that of Pluto?
3. What are the primary constituents of Makemake's surface?
4. Where is Makemake located in the solar system?
5. How long does it take Makemake to orbit the Sun?

Answers

1. The name "Makemake" originates from the mythology of the Rapa Nui people of Easter Island, where Makemake is the creator of humanity and the god of fertility.
2. Makemake has a diameter about two-thirds that of Pluto.
3. Makemake's surface is primarily composed of frozen methane, ethane, and possibly nitrogen.
4. Makemake resides in the Kuiper Belt, a region of icy bodies beyond the orbit of Neptune.
5. Makemake takes approximately 310 Earth years to complete one orbit around the Sun.

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