Which of the following astronomical bodies is the lowest in hierarchy?
To determine which astronomical body is the lowest in hierarchy, we need to consider the different levels or classifications of celestial objects. Generally, hierarchies in astronomy are based on the size and composition of the objects.
Among the given options, the lowest in hierarchy would be the asteroid. Asteroids are small rocky objects that orbit the Sun, primarily found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. They are significantly smaller than planets, moons, and comets.
Below is a hierarchy of the given options, from highest to lowest:
1. Planets (e.g., Earth, Mars, Jupiter)
2. Moons (e.g., Earth's Moon, Jupiter's moon Ganymede)
3. Comets (e.g., Halley's Comet, Hale-Bopp)
4. Asteroids (e.g., Ceres, Vesta)
Therefore, the asteroid is the lowest in hierarchy among the given options.