Data and Graphs: Analyzing Planetary Data
Learn
Why Scientists Use Data and Graphs
Scientists collect data (facts and measurements) to understand our universe. They use graphs to visualize data, making it easier to see patterns, compare information, and communicate discoveries. In this lesson, you'll analyze real data about our solar system's planets!
Planetary Data Table
Study the data table below. It contains key measurements for each planet in our solar system.
| Planet | Diameter (km) | Distance from Sun (AU) | Orbital Period (Earth years) | Number of Moons | Avg. Temp. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | 4,879 | 0.39 | 0.24 | 0 | 167C |
| Venus | 12,104 | 0.72 | 0.62 | 0 | 464C |
| Earth | 12,756 | 1.00 | 1.00 | 1 | 15C |
| Mars | 6,792 | 1.52 | 1.88 | 2 | -65C |
| Jupiter | 142,984 | 5.20 | 11.86 | 95 | -110C |
| Saturn | 120,536 | 9.58 | 29.46 | 146 | -140C |
| Uranus | 51,118 | 19.22 | 84.01 | 27 | -195C |
| Neptune | 49,528 | 30.05 | 164.80 | 16 | -200C |
Types of Graphs
Different types of graphs are used to display different kinds of data.
Bar Graph
Best for comparing categories. Use when comparing values across different groups (like planet sizes).
Line Graph
Best for showing change over time or continuous data. Use when data points are connected in sequence.
Circle/Pie Graph
Best for showing parts of a whole. Use when showing percentages or proportions.
Scatter Plot
Best for showing relationships between two variables. Use when looking for patterns or correlations.
Visualizing Planet Sizes
This bar graph compares the diameters (widths) of all eight planets. Notice how Jupiter dominates!
Explore the Data
Use the interactive explorer below to compare different planetary data!
Data Explorer
Patterns in the Data
When analyzing data, scientists look for patterns - relationships between different variables. For example:
- Pattern 1: Planets farther from the Sun have longer orbital periods (years)
- Pattern 2: Gas giants (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune) are much larger than rocky planets
- Pattern 3: Larger planets tend to have more moons
- Pattern 4: Planets farther from the Sun tend to be colder
Practice
Use the data table and graphs to answer these questions.
Check Your Understanding
Data Tables
Organize information in rows and columns for easy comparison and reference.
Bar Graphs
Compare values across different categories using rectangular bars.
Finding Patterns
Look for relationships between variables in the data.
Using Evidence
Support your conclusions with specific data from tables and graphs.
Key Takeaways
- Scientists use data and graphs to understand and communicate about our universe
- Different graph types serve different purposes (bar graphs for comparing, line graphs for trends)
- Patterns in data help scientists make predictions and discoveries
- Always read labels and scales carefully when interpreting graphs
Next Steps
- Create your own bar graph comparing planet temperatures
- Research additional planetary data (like gravity or density)
- Practice identifying patterns in other scientific data sets
- Continue to the CER Writing lesson to learn how to write scientific explanations