Why is using $ ext{AU}$ impractical for describing interstellar distances like that to Proxima Centauri?
Answer
The resulting number becomes too large ($ ext{nearly } 268,000 ext{ AU}$).
Trying to describe the distance to the nearest star, Proxima Centauri, in $ ext{AU}$ would involve a number so large ($ ext{nearly } 268,000 ext{ AU}$) it becomes impractical for everyday astronomical work.
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PARSECS, Light Years, or AU? (Astronomy) - YouTube
Related Questions
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