Introduction

The solar system consists of the Sun and all celestial objects that orbit it due to gravity. This includes planets, moons, asteroids, comets and dwarf planets. The Sun contains more than 99 percent of the solar system’s total mass and acts as its gravitational center.

1. The Sun

The Sun is a star made primarily of hydrogen and helium.

Its functions:

- Provides heat

- Provides light

- Maintains gravitational stability

- Supports life on Earth

Without the Sun, planets would not remain in orbit.

2. Inner Planets

These planets are closer to the Sun and are rocky in composition.

Mercury

The smallest planet and closest to the Sun.

Venus

Known for extreme heat and thick atmosphere.

Earth

The only known planet that supports life.

Mars

Known as the red planet due to iron-rich surface dust.

3. Asteroid Belt

Located between Mars and Jupiter.

Contains millions of rocky objects orbiting the Sun.

It separates inner and outer planets.

4. Outer Planets

These are larger planets made mostly of gas and ice.

Jupiter

Largest planet in the solar system.

Saturn

Known for its ring system.

Uranus

Rotates on its side.

Neptune

Known for strong winds and extreme distance from the Sun.

5. Dwarf Planets

Objects like Pluto are classified as dwarf planets because they do not fully clear their orbital path.

6. Other Objects

The solar system also includes:

- Moons

- Comets

- Meteoroids

- Space dust

How It Works

Gravity keeps planets orbiting the Sun while moons orbit planets.

Everything moves in a structured gravitational system.

Important Idea

The solar system is not just a list of planets.

It is a dynamic gravitational system centered around one star.