Source: Extra Practice
Which of the following units represents the largest distance?
Options
Option A
Astronomical Unit (AU)
Option B
Light-year (ly)
Option C is correct
Parsec (pc)
Option D
Kilometre (km)
Explanation
Let's compare the approximate values of these units:
- Kilometre (km):
- Astronomical Unit (AU): The average distance between the Earth and the Sun,
- Light-year (ly): The distance light travels in one year in a vacuum,
- Parsec (pc): The distance at which one astronomical unit subtends an angle of one arcsecond, Comparing these values, . Therefore, the Parsec is the largest unit of distance among the given options.