The definition of "planet" set by the International Astronomical Union states that in the Solar System a planet is a celestial body that:
1) is in orbit around the Sun √
2) has sufficient mass to assume hydrostatic equilibrium (a nearly round shape) √
3) has "cleared the neighbourhood" around its orbit. :(
The third clause gave Pluto the boot from the Big Boys Band.
If Pluto was larger, it would be gravitationally dominant and thus, there would be no bodies of comparable size other than its own satellites or those otherwise under its gravitational influence.
Pluto was further humiliated as "dwarf planet", which is a celestial body that fulfills only the first two conditions.
Size does matter.
designed by chris murphy
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