Understanding the Solar System and Its Formation

Solar System

Consists of the Sun, planets, asteroids, and comets.

Nebular Theory

Sun and planets formed from a gas and dust cloud.

Sun

Nearest star to Earth, primarily hydrogen plasma.

Thermonuclear Fusion

Process where hydrogen fuses into helium in the Sun.

Mass Conversion

4.5 million tons of mass converted to energy per second.

Energy Transfer

A tiny fraction of solar energy reaches Earth.

Inner Planets

Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars; rocky composition.

Outer Planets

Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune; gas giants.

Asteroids

Small rocky bodies orbiting the Sun, mainly in the asteroid belt.

Comets

Icy bodies that release gas and dust when near the Sun.

Planet Definition

Factors include orbit, mass, and cleared neighborhood.

Earth

The third planet from the Sun, supports life.

Jupiter

Largest planet, known for its Great Red Spot.

Mars

The fourth planet, known as the Red Planet.

Mercury

Closest planet to the Sun, small and rocky.

Neptune

Farthest planet, known for its deep blue color.

Saturn

Known for its prominent ring system.

Uranus

Tilted axis, has a blue-green color due to methane.

Venus

Second planet, similar size to Earth, thick atmosphere.