Cadet Competition Written Practice Exam

Of what are the rings of Saturn primarily made?

1. Water vapor and ammonia

2. Dust, ice chunks, rocks

3. Metal and gas

4. Organic compounds

The correct answer is: Dust, ice chunks, rocks

The rings of Saturn are primarily composed of dust, ice chunks, and rocks, which collectively create the stunning and complex structure that we see. These materials come in various sizes, ranging from tiny micrometeoroids to larger chunks that can be several meters across. The predominance of water ice in the rings is also significant; it gives the rings their bright appearance when sunlight reflects off them. The ice and rock components contribute to the dynamics and behavior of the rings, as gravitational interactions with Saturn’s moons create gaps and waves within the rings. These interactions lead to a diverse array of ring structures, including bright and narrow bands as well as wider, fainter regions. This composition is a fascinating aspect of Saturn’s rings, making them a point of interest in planetary science and astronomy.