The Shape of the Earth
· The Earth is not flat. It is spherical (almost a perfect sphere, slightly flattened at the poles).
· Evidence that the Earth is round:
1. Ships disappear hull first over the horizon.
2. The Earth casts a round shadow on the Moon during a lunar eclipse.
3. Photographs from space show a round Earth.
Step 3: The Earth as Part of the Solar System
Definition: The Solar System is the collection of the Sun, eight planets, moons, and other objects (asteroids, comets) that orbit the Sun.
Components of the Solar System:
1. The Sun – A star; center of the solar system; source of light and heat.
2. The Planets – Eight major bodies that orbit the Sun.
3. Moons – Natural satellites that orbit planets (Earth has one Moon).
4. Asteroids – Rocky objects mainly between Mars and Jupiter.
5. Comets – Icy bodies that develop tails when near the Sun.
The Eight Planets (in order from the Sun):
1. Mercury (smallest, closest to Sun)
2. Venus (hottest)
3. Earth (our home; has life and liquid water)
4. Mars (red planet)
5. Jupiter (largest)
6. Saturn (has rings)
7. Uranus
8. Neptune
Relationships: Earth, Sun, and Moon
1. Sun gives light and heat. Earth orbits the Sun.
2. Earth is the third planet. It has one Moon.
3. Moon is a natural satellite. It orbits the Earth.
4. The Moon does not produce its own light; it reflects sunlight.
