Terrestrial Planets

Terrestrial planets are a group of inner planets in our solar system that are primarily composed of silicate rocks or metals. The four terrestrial planets in our solar system are Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars. These planets are also known as the "rocky planets" due to their solid surfaces.

Characteristics of Terrestrial Planets

• Size: Terrestrial planets are relatively smaller in size compared to gas giants like Jupiter and Saturn.
• Composition: They are primarily made up of rock and metal. Their surfaces are solid and have a rocky terrain.
• Atmosphere: Terrestrial planets have thin atmospheres compared to gas giants. Earth's atmosphere, for example, is rich in nitrogen and oxygen, while Venus has a thick, toxic atmosphere of carbon dioxide.
• Orbit: They orbit closer to the sun compared to the gas giants, resulting in higher temperatures on their surfaces.
• Moons: Terrestrial planets have fewer moons compared to the gas giants. Earth has one moon, while Mars has two small moons.

Comparative Study of Terrestrial Planets

Let's take a closer look at each of the terrestrial planets:

Study Guide for Terrestrial Planets

1. What are the four terrestrial planets in our solar system?
2. Compare and contrast the composition of terrestrial planets with gas giants.
3. Explain why terrestrial planets have thinner atmospheres compared to gas giants.
4. Discuss the significance of the distance from the sun in determining the characteristics of terrestrial planets.
5. Compare the number of moons associated with terrestrial planets and gas giants.
6. Choose one terrestrial planet and describe its key features, including size, distance from the sun, and composition.