FAQs on The Solar System & Earth- 3

Question 1

1. What is the Solar System?

Accepted Answer

Ans. The Solar System is a collection of celestial bodies that includes the Sun, eight planets, their moons, asteroids, comets, and other space debris. It is held together by the gravitational pull of the Sun and is located in the Milky Way galaxy.

Question 2

2. How many planets are there in the Solar System?

Accepted Answer

Ans. There are eight planets in the Solar System: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Pluto, which was previously considered the ninth planet, has been reclassified as a dwarf planet.

Question 3

3. What makes Earth unique in the Solar System?

Accepted Answer

Ans. Earth is unique in the Solar System because it is the only known planet to support life. It has a suitable atmosphere, moderate temperatures, liquid water, and a diverse range of ecosystems. These factors contribute to the existence of a wide variety of organisms, including humans.

Question 4

4. What is the distance between the Sun and Earth?

Accepted Answer

Ans. The average distance between the Sun and Earth is about 93 million miles (150 million kilometers). This distance is known as 1 astronomical unit (AU). However, due to the elliptical shape of Earth's orbit, the distance can vary between 91.4 million miles (147 million kilometers) and 94.5 million miles (152 million kilometers).

Question 5

5. What are the main components of Earth's atmosphere?

Accepted Answer

Ans. Earth's atmosphere is composed primarily of nitrogen (about 78%) and oxygen (about 21%). Other gases present in smaller amounts include carbon dioxide, water vapor, argon, and trace amounts of various gases. The atmosphere plays a crucial role in regulating Earth's climate and protecting it from harmful solar radiation.

The Solar System & Earth- 3 Video Lecture - Geography for UPSC CSE

Geography for UPSC CSE

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