Neptune

Neptune is the eighth and farthest known planet from the Sun in the Solar System. It is a gas giant, similar in composition to Uranus, and is often referred to as an "ice giant".

Key Facts about Neptune:

• Distance from the Sun: 4.5 billion kilometers
• Orbital Period: 164.8 Earth years
• Equatorial Diameter: 49,528 kilometers
• Number of Moons: 14 known moons
• Atmosphere: Composed mostly of hydrogen, helium, and methane

Physical Characteristics:

Neptune has a deep blue color, which is the result of the absorption of red light by methane in the atmosphere. It has a complex weather system, including the fastest winds in the Solar System, reaching speeds of up to 2,100 kilometers per hour.

Magnetic Field:

Neptune has a strong magnetic field, tilted at an angle of 47 degrees from its rotational axis. The magnetic field is believed to be generated by convection currents in the icy mantle of the planet.

Study Guide Questions:

1. What is the distance of Neptune from the Sun?
2. How long is the orbital period of Neptune?
3. What is the main component of Neptune's atmosphere?
4. How many moons does Neptune have?
5. What gives Neptune its deep blue color?
6. What is the speed of the winds on Neptune?
7. Describe the magnetic field of Neptune.

Answers to Study Guide Questions:

1. Neptune is 4.5 billion kilometers away from the Sun.
2. The orbital period of Neptune is 164.8 Earth years.
3. The main component of Neptune's atmosphere is methane.
4. Neptune has 14 known moons.
5. Neptune's deep blue color is the result of the absorption of red light by methane in the atmosphere.
6. The winds on Neptune can reach speeds of up to 2,100 kilometers per hour.
7. Neptune has a strong magnetic field tilted at an angle of 47 degrees from its rotational axis, believed to be generated by convection currents in the icy mantle of the planet.

[Neptune] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Our Solar SystemScience • Eighth Grade
• Our Solar system and beyondScience • Fourth Grade