Terrestrial Planets Flashcard

Front

What is a terrestrial planet?

Back

A terrestrial planet is a type of planet that is composed primarily of silicate rocks or metals and has a solid surface. Examples include Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars.

Front

Which planet has a retrograde rotation?

Back

Venus rotates in the opposite direction of all other planets in our solar system.

Front

What are the main characteristics of terrestrial planets?

Back

Terrestrial planets have rocky surfaces, are smaller and less dense than gas giants, and may have none, one, or two moons.

Front

Which planet has ice caps made of frozen water and carbon dioxide?

Back

Mars has ice caps made of frozen water and carbon dioxide, with evidence of frozen water existing below the surface.

Front

What is the order of terrestrial planets from closest to the sun?

Back

The order is Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars.

Front

Which terrestrial planet has an atmospheric pressure over 90 times that of Earth?

Back

Venus has an atmospheric pressure that is over 90 times that of Earth.

Front

What is the surface composition of Mars?

Back

Mars has a rocky surface with evidence of ice caps and frozen water.

Front

How many moons do terrestrial planets typically have?

Back

Terrestrial planets may have none, one, or two moons.

Front

What is the significance of Venus's retrograde rotation?

Back

Venus's retrograde rotation means it rotates in the opposite direction to most planets, affecting its day length and climate.

Front

What is the main difference between terrestrial and gas giant planets?

Back

Terrestrial planets have solid surfaces, while gas giants are composed mostly of gases and lack a well-defined solid surface.