Solar System

The solar system is a collection of celestial bodies that are bound together by gravity. It consists of the sun, eight planets, their moons, and other smaller objects such as asteroids and comets.

The Sun

The sun is a yellow dwarf star at the center of the solar system. It is the largest object and contains about 99.8% of the total mass of the entire solar system.

The Planets

There are eight planets in the solar system, divided into two groups: the inner rocky planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars) and the outer gas giants (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune).

Inner Planets

• Mercury: Closest planet to the sun, very hot and has a rocky surface.
• Venus: Similar in size to Earth, covered in thick clouds and has a very hot surface.
• Earth: Our home planet, with a diverse range of ecosystems and the only known planet to support life.
• Mars: Known as the "Red Planet" due to its reddish appearance, has the largest volcano and canyon in the solar system.

Outer Planets

• Jupiter: Largest planet in the solar system, known for its Great Red Spot and many moons.
• Saturn: Known for its beautiful rings made up of ice and rock particles, also has many moons.
• Uranus: Tilted on its side, it is often referred to as an "ice giant" planet.
• Neptune: The farthest planet from the sun, known for its blue color and strong winds.

Moons, Asteroids, and Comets

Many of the planets in the solar system have moons, with Jupiter and Saturn having the most. Additionally, there are numerous asteroids and comets orbiting the sun, with the asteroid belt located between Mars and Jupiter.

Study Guide

1. What is the sun and its role in the solar system?
2. List and describe the eight planets in the solar system.
3. What are the differences between the inner and outer planets?
4. Discuss the moons, asteroids, and comets in the solar system.
5. Draw and label a diagram of the solar system, including the sun, planets, and major moons.

[Solar System] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

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