Which planet is closest to the Sun?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is Mercury.
Explanation:
☛ Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun in our Solar System.
☛ It is also the smallest planet in the Solar System, with a size only slightly larger than Earth's Moon.
☛ Mercury has the shortest orbital period, taking only about 88 Earth days to complete one revolution around the Sun.
☛ Because it lacks a significant atmosphere, Mercury experiences extreme temperature fluctuations, ranging from extremely hot during the day to freezing cold at night.
☛ Mercury does not possess any natural satellites (moons) or ring systems.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Venus: It is the second planet from the Sun, the hottest planet in our Solar System due to a dense greenhouse atmosphere, and is often called 'Earth's Twin'.
☛ Earth: It is the third planet from the Sun, the densest planet in the Solar System, and has one natural moon.
☛ Mars: Known as the 'Red Planet' due to the presence of iron oxide on its surface; it has two small moons named Phobos and Deimos.
☛ Order of planets from the Sun: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which planet has the shortest orbital period in the Solar System? → Mercury (88 days)
☛ Which two planets in the Solar System have no natural moons? → Mercury and Venus
☛ Which planet rotates fastest on its axis, having the shortest day? → Jupiter
☛ Which planet is known as the 'Morning Star' and 'Evening Star'? → Venus
☛ Which is the largest planet in the Solar System? → Jupiter