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The outermost planet in our solar system is Neptune, which is the eighth planet from the Sun. Neptune is a gas giant and the farthest recognized planet according to the International Astronomical Union (IAU), as Pluto was reclassified in 2006 as a dwarf planet due to its smaller size and inability to clear its orbital path.
Neptune is located at an average distance of about 4.5 billion kilometers (30 astronomical units) from the Sun. It takes approximately 165 Earth years to complete a single orbit around the Sun. This planet is known for its intense blue color, caused by the presence of methane in its atmosphere, which absorbs red light and reflects blue.
Key facts about Neptune:
It is the fourth-largest planet in diameter and the third most massive in the solar system.
Composed mainly of hydrogen, helium, and methane.
Experiences supersonic winds, some of the fastest in the solar system, reaching speeds of over 2,000 km/h.
Has 14 known moons, with Triton being the largest.
The other options are incorrect:
Mercury: The innermost planet, closest to the Sun.
Pluto: Once considered the ninth planet, now classified as a dwarf planet since 2006.
Uranus: The seventh planet, second-farthest from the Sun, located just inside Neptune’s orbit.
Neptune plays a crucial role in understanding the formation of planetary systems, gravitational influences, and the boundaries of our solar system. Its discovery in 1846, based on mathematical predictions rather than direct observation, stands as one of astronomy’s greatest achievements.This question belongs to Physics (Astronomy branch), as it concerns the order of planets and their positions within our solar system.
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