Solar system
Solar System
The Solar System (/ˈsoʊlər ˈsɪstəm/) is the gravitationally bound system comprising the Sun and the objects that orbit it, either directly or indirectly. The predominant objects that orbit the Sun directly are the eight planets, with the remainder being smaller objects, such as the five dwarf planets and small Solar System bodies.
Etymology
The term "Solar System" is derived from the Latin Sol, meaning "Sun", and Systema, meaning "system". The term was first used in the 17th century by astronomers searching for a way to describe the group of celestial bodies that orbit the Sun.
Related Terms
- Planet: A celestial body that orbits the Sun, is spherical in shape, and has cleared its orbit of other debris.
- Dwarf planet: A celestial body that orbits the Sun, is spherical in shape, but has not cleared its orbit of other debris.
- Asteroid: A small, rocky object that orbits the Sun.
- Comet: A small, icy object that orbits the Sun and develops a tail of gas and dust when it nears the Sun.
- Meteor: A small particle from a comet or asteroid that burns up in Earth's atmosphere.
- Meteorite: A meteor that survives its passage through Earth's atmosphere and lands on Earth's surface.
- Moon: A natural satellite that orbits a planet.
- Star: A celestial body that produces light and heat through nuclear fusion in its core.
- Galaxy: A large system of stars, gas, dust, and dark matter bound together by gravity.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Solar system
- Wikipedia's article - Solar system
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