What unexpected celestial body was discovered due to the perturbations in the orbit of Uranus?

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Enhance your knowledge for the ASU PHY101 Exam. Prepare with multiple choice questions, flashcards, and explanations. Get exam ready with ease!

The discovery of Neptune was a significant milestone in astronomy, stemming from the observed perturbations in the orbit of Uranus. When astronomers noted that Uranus did not follow a precise path as predicted by Newton's laws of motion and gravitation, they hypothesized that another, as yet unseen planet might be exerting gravitational influence on it.

Using mathematical predictions, astronomers were able to locate Neptune in 1846, just a short distance away from where they expected it to be, based on the discrepancies in Uranus's orbit. This discovery confirmed the validity of Newtonian physics and the influence of gravitational forces from distant celestial bodies.

The other options are prominent celestial bodies within our solar system as well. Jupiter and Saturn are gas giants that were known long before Uranus's anomalies were investigated. Pluto, discovered in 1930, did not play a role in the perturbations affecting Uranus; its orbit has been primarily influenced by the presence of Neptune and not vice versa. Thus, the most fitting answer regarding the unexpected celestial body discovered due to the perturbations in Uranus's orbit is Neptune.

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