What is the difference between a planet and a dwarf planet?
The difference between a planet and a dwarf planet is a matter of size and location.
A planet is:
- A celestial body that is in orbit around the sun
- Has sufficient mass to assume a nearly round shape
- Has cleared the neighbourhood around its orbit of other debris
A dwarf planet is:
- A celestial body that is in orbit around the sun
- Has sufficient mass to assume a nearly round shape
- Has NOT cleared the neighbourhood around its orbit of other debris
Currently, there are 8 planets in our solar system and 5 recognized dwarf planets. The dwarf planets are Ceres, Pluto, Haumea, Makemake, and Eris.
It should be noted that the International Astronomical Union (IAU) is the organization responsible for classifying celestial bodies. In 2006, the IAU redefined the criteria for what qualifies as a planet, resulting in Pluto being reclassified as a dwarf planet.
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