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The Earth is the fourth-largest planet in the Solar System in terms of size, following Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus. Although Earth is the largest of the terrestrial planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars), it is smaller than the gas giants in both diameter and volume.
The ranking by size among the planets is:
Jupiter – the largest, a massive gas giant.
Saturn – second-largest, known for its prominent rings.
Uranus – third-largest, an ice giant.
Earth – fourth-largest overall and the largest terrestrial planet.
Neptune – slightly smaller than Earth in volume.
Venus – similar in size to Earth but slightly smaller.
Mars – smaller than Venus.
Mercury – the smallest planet in the Solar System.
Earth has a diameter of about 12,742 km, a circumference of around 40,075 km, and a volume sufficient to make it the largest rocky planet. Its size allows it to have a strong gravitational field, which retains the atmosphere, supports life, and allows oceans to exist. Compared to gas giants, Earth is tiny, but its moderate size is ideal for maintaining conditions suitable for life.
Understanding the Earth’s rank by size is important in astronomy and planetary science, as it provides perspective on planetary formation, composition, and structure. Scientists use this ranking to compare planetary properties like gravity, atmosphere, and habitability across the Solar System.
In summary, the correct answer is 4th, because Earth is the fourth-largest planet overall and the largest among the rocky planets
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