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Learning objective

Explain that the Solar System consists of: (a) one star, the Sun, (b) eight named planets in their order from the Sun, (c) minor planets like dwarf planets such as Pluto and asteroids that orbit the Sun, (d) moons that orbit the planets, and (e) smaller bodies like comets and natural satellites.

Read the explanation, check the common trap, then practise with flashcards and questions.

Exam focus

  • Read the explanation.
  • Check key terms.
  • Practise with linked questions.
Cambridge IGCSE PhysicsSpace physicsCore content

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Quick explanation

Explain that the Solar System consists of: (a) one star, the Sun, (b) eight named planets in their order from the Sun, (c) minor planets like dwarf planets such as Pluto and asteroids that orbit the Sun, (d) moons that orbit the planets, and (e) smaller bodies like comets and natural satellites

  • This point belongs to The Solar System, especially The Solar System outcomes.
  • You need to be able to explain that the Solar System consists of: (a) one star, the Sun, (b) eight named planets in their order from the Sun, (c) minor planets like dwarf planets such as Pluto and asteroids that orbit the Sun, (d) moons that orbit the planets, and (e) smaller bodies like comets and natural satellites.
  • The key ideas to know are Describe, Identify, and Know.
  • Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.

Key concepts

DescribeIdentifyKnow

Why it matters

This objective helps connect The Solar System outcomes to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for The Solar System.

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Paper 3 structured question: The Solar System

Paper 3Theory (Core)1 marks

Description

Components of the Solar System

The Solar System consists of various celestial bodies including one star, eight planets, dwarf planets, asteroids, moons, and comets.

  1. a

    State the number of planets in the Solar System.

    Aim for approximately 1 distinct marking point.

    [1]
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