minor planet crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "minor planet crossword", you've come to the right place. We provide the most accurate answers and detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle and expand your knowledge.
Solutions for "minor planet crossword" by Letter Count
8 Letters
ASTEROID: A small, rocky object that orbits the Sun, typically much smaller than a planet. Asteroids are the most numerous type of minor planet.
11 Letters
DWARFPLANET: A celestial body orbiting the Sun that is massive enough to be rounded by its own gravity but has not cleared its orbital neighborhood of other debris. Pluto is a well-known example of a dwarf planet, which is a type of minor planet.
More About "minor planet crossword"
The term "minor planet" in astronomy refers to a diverse category of celestial objects that orbit the Sun but are neither classified as full-fledged planets nor strictly as comets. This classification includes the vast majority of asteroids found mainly in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, as well as dwarf planets like Pluto, Eris, and Ceres, which are large enough to be spherical but haven't cleared their orbital paths.
When this clue appears in a crossword puzzle, solvers often immediately think of "ASTEROID" due to its historical prevalence and common association with the term. However, with the reclassification of Pluto and the recognition of other large, spherical bodies, "DWARFPLANET" has also become a highly relevant and correct answer, depending on the specific letter count required by the puzzle. Understanding the distinctions between these terms can be key to unlocking tricky astronomical clues.
Crossword setters frequently use scientific or astronomical terms as clues, testing solvers' general knowledge. "Minor planet" is a good example of a clue that bridges common parlance with scientific classification, making it a versatile and interesting challenge.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many crossword clues, especially those related to scientific terms, can have slightly different classifications or common names. Always think of synonyms or related terms beyond the most obvious one.
- Check Letter Count: The length of the answer is your most powerful tool. If "ASTEROID" (8 letters) doesn't fit, think of other related terms like "DWARFPLANET" (11 letters) that might.
- Look for Cross-References: Often, intersecting words will provide critical letters that can confirm or rule out a potential answer. Use these to your advantage, especially for less common terms.
- Context is Key: While "minor planet" might lead you to astronomy, other clues in the puzzle might hint at a specific type of puzzle (e.g., a scientific-themed puzzle) or a particular crossword setter's style.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a minor planet in astronomy?
A minor planet is an astronomical object in direct orbit around the Sun that is neither a planet nor exclusively classified as a comet. It includes dwarf planets, asteroids, and centaurs. The term was originally used to describe asteroids.
Why might 'ASTEROID' be a common answer for 'minor planet' in crosswords?
'ASTEROID' is frequently used because it was one of the first and most widely recognized types of minor planets. The term 'minor planet' was historically synonymous with 'asteroid' before the classification system evolved to include dwarf planets and other categories. Its eight-letter length also makes it a versatile fit for many puzzles.
Are dwarf planets considered minor planets?
Yes, dwarf planets are a sub-category of minor planets. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) defines dwarf planets as celestial bodies orbiting the Sun that are massive enough to be rounded by their own gravity but have not cleared their orbital neighborhood of other debris. Famous examples include Pluto, Eris, Ceres, Makemake, and Haumea.