Uranus

Uranus is the seventh planet from the Sun and is classified as an ice giant. It is named after the Greek god of the sky, Uranus. The planet is unique in many ways, including its rotational axis, composition, and its system of rings and moons.

Characteristics of Uranus

• Size: Uranus has a diameter of about 50,724 kilometers, making it the third-largest planet in our solar system.
• Atmosphere: The atmosphere of Uranus is composed mainly of hydrogen and helium, with traces of methane. The presence of methane gives the planet its blue-green color.
• Rotation: Uranus rotates on its side, with its axis almost parallel to its orbit around the Sun. This unique orientation results in extreme seasonal variations on the planet.
• Rings: Uranus has a system of 13 faint rings, which were first discovered in 1977. These rings are made up of dark particles, and some of them are believed to be only a few meters wide.
• Moons: Uranus has 27 known moons, with the five largest ones being Miranda, Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon.

Study Guide

1. What is the distance of Uranus from the Sun?
2. What gives Uranus its blue-green color?
3. Describe the rotational axis of Uranus.
4. How many rings does Uranus have, and when were they first discovered?
5. Name the five largest moons of Uranus.

[Uranus] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

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