Earth third planet from the sun
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Earth: The Third Planet from the Sun
Position in the Solar System
Earth is the third planet from the Sun, situated at an average distance of approximately 150 million kilometers (93 million miles) 12356. This distance is also known as one Astronomical Unit (AU), a standard unit of measurement used to describe distances within our Solar System . Earth follows an almost circular elliptical orbit around the Sun, maintaining this average distance with slight variations 37.
Orbital Characteristics
Earth's orbit around the Sun is nearly circular, with an average distance of 149.6 million kilometers . The planet revolves around the Sun counterclockwise when viewed from the North Pole of the celestial sphere . The orbital period, or the duration of one complete revolution around the Sun, is approximately 365.24 solar days, which defines a year on Earth . The average velocity of Earth's motion in its orbit is about 29.765 kilometers per second .
Physical Properties
Earth has a mass of approximately 5.977 × 10^27 grams and an average radius of 6,371 kilometers . The planet's surface area is about 510.08 million square kilometers, with an average density of 5.52 grams per cubic centimeter . Earth's shape is best described as a geoid, which represents an equipotential gravity surface . This shape closely approximates an ellipsoid of revolution, with deviations caused by nonuniform mass distribution and dynamic processes within the mantle and lithosphere .
Unique Characteristics
Earth is unique among the planets in our Solar System due to its ability to support life. It is the densest planet and the only one known to harbor life, with biodiversity that has continuously expanded over billions of years . The planet's surface is 71% covered by water, which exists in all three states: solid, liquid, and gas 47. This abundance of water, along with a hospitable temperature range, makes Earth suitable for life .
Geological and Environmental Features
Earth's lithosphere is divided into several rigid tectonic plates that migrate across the surface over millions of years . The planet's interior remains geologically active, with a solid iron inner core, a liquid outer core that generates a magnetic field, and a thick mantle . The surface environment includes continents, islands, lakes, and other water sources that contribute to the hydrosphere .
Conclusion
Earth, the third planet from the Sun, is a unique and dynamic world. Its position in the Solar System, physical properties, and ability to support life distinguish it from other planets. Understanding Earth's characteristics helps us appreciate its significance and the delicate balance that sustains life on our "Blue Planet."
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic