Overview
This lecture introduces the Solar System, its planets in order from the Sun, planetary orbits, and the origin of weekday names.
The Solar System
- The Solar System is made up of the Sun and everything that revolves around it (planets, comets, asteroids).
- The Sun is a star at the center of the Solar System.
- Planets, comets, and asteroids all orbit the Sun.
The Planets of the Solar System
- There are eight planets in the Solar System, listed in order from the Sun: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune.
- Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars are closer to the Sun and are smaller in size.
- Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune are further from the Sun and are larger planets.
- Jupiter is the largest planet in the Solar System.
- The path a planet takes around the Sun is called an orbit.
The Days of the Week and Planetary Names
- Monday is named after the Moon, Earth's natural satellite.
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday are named after ancient British gods linked to Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, and Venus.
- Saturday is named after Saturn.
- Sunday is named after the Sun.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Solar System — The Sun and all objects that move around it, including planets, comets, and asteroids.
- Orbit — The path that a planet follows around the Sun.
- Planet — A large celestial body that orbits the Sun.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Memorize the order of the eight planets in the Solar System.
- Review the connections between planet names and days of the week.