8
QuizMultiple Choice

Universal Gravitation — Quiz

Question 8 • Earth and Space Science

Why does Io experience approximately 365 eclipses per year?

Answer
A
Its short orbital period leads to frequent passes through Jupiter's shadow.
B
It is farther from Jupiter than most other moons.
C
It is the largest moon in the solar system, so it blocks the most sunlight.
D
Its orbit is unpredictable due to volcanic activity.

Explanation

Io orbits Jupiter very quickly, completing one orbit in about 1.77 days. As it goes around Jupiter, it frequently passes through Jupiter’s shadow, causing eclipses; this amounts to roughly 365 eclipses in a year. Its distance, size, and volcanic activity do not explain the frequency.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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