The Solar System
Physics: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 8.1.1
The Solar System
Our solar system is a small part of the Milky Way Galaxy. It is made up of:
The Sun
- The Sun is the only star in our solar system.
Planets and dwarf planets
- Planets and dwarf planets orbit around the Sun.
- There are eight planets in our solar system (Pluto is a dwarf planet).
Moons
- Moons are in orbit around many of the planets.
- Moons are called natural satellites.
Comets and asteroids
- Comets and asteroids also orbit around the Sun.
Test yourself on The Solar System
What is the name of our galaxy?
Size in our Solar System
Which of these is a star?
Which of the following does NOT orbit around the Sun?