Satellites and moons
3 marks · NormalThe table below shows the average distance of two moons from Saturn and the time each takes to orbit Saturn once:
| Moon | Average distance from Saturn (km) | Orbital period (days) |
|---|---|---|
| Mimas | 186,000 | 0.94 |
| Titan | 1,221,900 | 15.95 |
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Titan orbits Saturn at a greater distance and takes longer to complete an orbit than Mimas.
Must show: correct qualitative comparison
Also accept: As Titan is further from Saturn, it takes much longer to orbit than Mimas.
Common mistakes: Reversing which moon is further and which is quicker; Not noting both distance and period
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Identifies which moon has greater distance from Saturn (Titan).
M2 · 1 mark · Identifies which has greater orbital period (Titan).
A1 · 1 mark · Relates greater distance to longer time, making clear comparative statement.
Worked solution
Titan: - Average distance = 1,221,900 km (greater than Mimas) - Orbital period = 15.95 days (longer than Mimas)
Mimas: - Average distance = 186,000 km - Orbital period = 0.94 days
Titan is much further from Saturn and takes much longer to complete an orbit. This matches the rule that for greater orbital distance, the orbital period increases.