Question

Why do you think astronomers even classify dwarf planets? Why not just catalog planets and leave it at that?

Answer 1

This is my opinion- please note this is NOT a fact:

Scientists label planets and dwarf planets to further distinguish what actually classifies a planet. If scientists didn’t have a classification system, the argument could be made that solid matter in space could be named a “planet” (asteroids, moons, etc.). Having certain classification thresholds means that planets that could support life are identified.

Again- this is NOT fact, my simple opinion. I could be very wrong.