Study Notes
The Solar System consists of the Sun, eight planets, dwarf planets, moons, asteroids, and comets, all held together by gravity. The four inner planets are rocky and small, while the four outer planets are gaseous and large.
- Sun — the star at the center of the Solar System.
Example: Provides light and heat to the planets. - Planets — celestial bodies orbiting the Sun in a specific order.
Example: Earth is the third planet from the Sun. - Dwarf Planets — smaller celestial bodies orbiting the Sun, like Pluto.
Example: Pluto is a well-known dwarf planet. - Moons — natural satellites orbiting planets.
Example: The Moon orbits Earth. - Asteroids — rocky objects mostly found between Mars and Jupiter.
Example: The asteroid belt contains numerous asteroids. - Comets — icy bodies with elliptical orbits around the Sun.
Example: Halley's Comet is a famous comet visible from Earth.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Sun
- Planets
- Dwarf Planets
- Moons
- Asteroids
- Comets
Common Confusions
- Confusing the order of planets from the Sun
- Misunderstanding the difference between asteroids and comets
Typical Exam Questions
- Name the planets in the Solar System in order of increasing distance from the Sun? Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune
- Why does the Moon have phases? The Moon's phases are due to its orbit around Earth, changing the portion we see illuminated by the Sun.
- What keeps the planets in orbit around the Sun? The gravitational attraction of the Sun.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of the order and characteristics of planets
- Differences between rocky and gaseous planets
- The role of gravity in the Solar System