To determine which data table describes the Sun, we need to closely examine the composition and mass provided in each table and compare them against known characteristics of the Sun.
1. Table A:
- Composition: Mostly frozen nitrogen
- Mass: [tex]\(258.9 \times 10^{18} \, \text{kg}\)[/tex]
The Sun primarily consists of hydrogen and helium in the form of hot, dense gas, not frozen nitrogen. The mass provided here does not match the known mass of the Sun.
2. Table B:
- Composition: Mostly hydrogen and helium gas
- Mass: [tex]\(1.989 \times 10^{30} \, \text{kg}\)[/tex]
This composition closely mirrors what we know about the Sun, which is predominantly hydrogen (about 74%) and helium (about 24%). Additionally, the mass provided here ([tex]\(1.989 \times 10^{30} \, \text{kg}\)[/tex]) matches the scientifically accepted mass of the Sun. This seems to be the correct match.
3. Table C:
- Composition: Fine dust, metals, minerals, and volcanic activity
- Mass: [tex]\(6.4 \times 10^{23} \, \text{kg}\)[/tex]
This description does not align with the composition of the Sun, which does not have dust and metals in significant amounts relative to hydrogen and helium. The mass similarly does not correspond to that of the Sun, being far too low.
4. Table D:
- Composition: Central iron core surrounded by rock, similar to Earth
- Mass: [tex]\(4.9 \times 10^{24} \, \text{kg}\)[/tex]
The Sun does not have a rocky composition or an iron core surrounded by rock, as it is a gaseous sphere. The mass listed also does not match what is known about the Sun's mass.
Evaluating the provided data:
- The Composition and Mass in Table B accurately describe the known properties of the Sun.
Therefore, the correct table that describes the Sun is:
Option B.
