Planets of the Solar System Comparison

Study Notes

Planetary Features and Facts

Saturn is renowned for its stunning and prominent ring system, comprised of ice and rock particles orbiting the planet.
Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun, with a swift orbit that takes just 88 Earth days to complete.
Neptune holds the record for the highest wind speeds in the solar system, with gusts reaching over 1,200 miles per hour (about 2,000 kilometers per hour).
Mercury is also the smallest planet in the solar system, measuring around 3,030 miles (4,880 kilometers) in diameter.
Mars possesses the lowest surface gravity of any terrestrial planet, approximately 38% that of Earth’s, which influences its geology and potential for supporting life.
Venus experiences surface temperatures that can soar up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 427 degrees Celsius), making it the hottest planet.
Venus also has a thick, toxic atmosphere rich in carbon dioxide, leading to intense greenhouse effect conditions.
Venus is similar in size to Earth but has no moons, creating a unique point of comparison in planetary science.
Earth is distinguished as the only known planet capable of supporting life, with necessary conditions such as water, suitable temperatures, and an atmosphere.
Mars is nicknamed the "Red Planet" due to its distinctive reddish appearance, caused by iron oxide (rust) on its surface.
Jupiter is impressive with 79 known moons, including Europa, which is believed to have a subsurface ocean, potentially ideal for life.
Jupiter is distinguished from other planets through its massive size, being the largest planet in the solar system, and its Great Red Spot, a giant storm larger than Earth.
Mars shares key characteristics with terrestrial planets, including a solid surface, the presence of polar ice caps, and evidence of past water flow, indicating similar geological processes.