Solar System 101 | National Geographic

How did the Solar System form?

• A cloud of interstellar gas and dust collapsed.

• A giant star exploded, creating debris.

• Two galaxies collided, forming new stars.

• Planets slowly gathered together over billions of years.

Which of the following is a characteristic of terrestrial planets?

• They are primarily made of gas and ice.

• They have multiple moons and ring systems.

• Their surfaces are solid and made of rocky material.

• They are immense in size.

Which planet is known for being the hottest, with temperatures reaching up to 867°F?

• Mercury

• Venus

• Mars

• Earth

What are the gas giants (Jupiter and Saturn) primarily made of?

• Rock and ice

• Water, methane, and ammonia

• Helium and hydrogen

• Carbon dioxide