Question

The distance from the Earth to the Sun equals 1 AU. Neptune is 30 AU from the Sun. How far is Neptune from the Earth?AU

Answer 1

Answer:

Depending on the relative position of the Earth the Sun and Neptune in the Earths orbit the distances are;

The closest (minimum) distance of Neptune from the Earth is 29 AU

The farthest (maximum) distance of Neptune fro the Earth is 31 AU

Explanation:

The following parameters are given;

The distance from the Earth to the Sun = 1 AU

The distance of Neptune from the Earth = 30 AU

We have;

When the Sun is between the Earth and Neptune, the distance is found by the relation;

Distance from the Earth to Neptune = 30 + 1 = 31 AU

When the Earth is between the Sun  and Neptune, the distance is found by the relation;

Distance from the Earth to Neptune = 30 - 1 = 29 AU

Therefore, the closest distance from Neptune to the Earth in the Earth's Orbit is 29 AU

The farthest distance from Neptune to the Earth in the Earth's orbit is 31 AU.