Eris

Eris is a dwarf planet in our solar system, located in the Kuiper Belt, which is a region of icy bodies beyond the orbit of Neptune. It was discovered in 2005 and is about the same size as Pluto. Eris is named after the Greek goddess of strife and discord.

Characteristics of Eris:

• Size: Eris has a diameter of about 1,445 miles (2,326 kilometers).
• Orbit: It takes Eris about 557 Earth years to orbit the Sun. Its distance from the Sun varies between 38.2 and 97.6 astronomical units (AU).
• Surface: Eris is covered in frozen methane and nitrogen, giving it a very reflective surface.
• Moons: Eris has one known moon called Dysnomia, named after the daughter of Eris in Greek mythology.

Study Guide:

1. What is the name of the dwarf planet located in the Kuiper Belt?
2. When was Eris discovered?
3. What is the diameter of Eris?
4. How long does it take Eris to orbit the Sun?
5. What are the main components of Eris' surface?
6. How many moons does Eris have and what is the name of its moon?

Answers:

1. Eris
2. 2005
3. About 1,445 miles (2,326 kilometers)
4. About 557 Earth years
5. Frozen methane and nitrogen
6. Eris has one moon called Dysnomia