What's the closest planet to the sun
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Closest Planet to the Sun: Mercury
Introduction to Terrestrial Planets
The four planets closest to the Sun—Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars—are known as the terrestrial planets due to their rocky compositions and proximity to the Sun . These planets share many similarities, such as having solid surfaces and being relatively small compared to the gas giants in the outer Solar System.
Mercury: The Closest Planet to the Sun
Mercury holds the title of the closest planet to the Sun. It is the smallest of the eight planets in our Solar System and has an orbital period of about 88 Earth days. This rapid orbit means that Mercury completes a full revolution around the Sun faster than any other planet.
Characteristics of Mercury
Mercury's proximity to the Sun results in extreme temperature variations on its surface. During the day, temperatures can soar to 430 degrees Celsius (800 degrees Fahrenheit), while at night, they can plummet to -180 degrees Celsius (-290 degrees Fahrenheit). Despite its small size, Mercury has a significant iron core, which generates a magnetic field, albeit much weaker than Earth's.
Conclusion
In summary, Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun, characterized by its rapid orbit and extreme temperature fluctuations. Its unique position and features make it a fascinating subject of study within our Solar System.
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