Third Planet: Earth

The third planet from the Sun is Earth. It is the only known planet to support life and is the largest of the terrestrial planets. Earth has a diverse range of environments, including oceans, mountains, deserts, and forests, making it a unique and dynamic planet.

Key Facts about Earth:

• Orbital Period: Earth takes approximately 365.25 days to orbit the Sun.
• Atmosphere: Earth's atmosphere is composed primarily of nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%), with trace amounts of other gases.
• Water: Earth is known as the "Blue Planet" due to its abundant water supply, with oceans covering approximately 71% of its surface.
• Continents: Earth has seven continents, including Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Antarctica, Europe, and Australia.
• Moon: Earth has one natural satellite, the Moon, which plays a crucial role in tides and stabilizing Earth's rotation.

Study Guide:

1. What is the third planet from the Sun? Answer: Earth
2. What is Earth's primary atmospheric gas? Answer: Nitrogen (78%) and Oxygen (21%)
3. What percentage of Earth's surface is covered by water? Answer: Approximately 71%
4. How long does it take Earth to orbit the Sun? Answer: Approximately 365.25 days
5. How many continents does Earth have? Name them. Answer: Seven continents - Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Antarctica, Europe, and Australia
6. What is the name of Earth's natural satellite? Answer: The Moon

Understanding Earth as the third planet in our solar system provides valuable insight into the unique characteristics that make it a habitable and fascinating world. Studying Earth also allows us to appreciate the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable living for the future of our planet.