MAJOR PLANET Meaning and
Definition
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A major planet, also referred to as a classical planet or a gas giant, is a type of celestial body that orbits the Sun and meets specific criteria established by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). These celestial bodies are characterized by their round shape due to their own gravitational force, which has cleared their orbital path of any nearby objects.
The term "major planet" specifically refers to the eight planets of our solar system: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. These planets are distinguished from other celestial bodies, such as dwarf planets or minor planets, by their substantial size, dominant location in their respective orbits, and their ability to gravitationally dominate their vicinity, either by capturing or scattering nearby objects.
Major planets differ significantly from terrestrial planets (rocky, smaller planets) due to their composition, mainly consisting of gases and liquids, primarily hydrogen and helium. They also possess a robust atmosphere, dynamic weather systems, and a relatively simple structure composed of a dense core surrounded by various layers of gas.
The study and exploration of major planets have been instrumental in understanding planetary systems, stellar evolution, and the formation of galaxies. Through the analysis of their atmospheres, magnetic fields, rings, and moons, scientists delve into the processes that shaped these giant celestial bodies, shedding light on the mechanisms that created and continue to influence our solar system and beyond.
Common Misspellings for MAJOR PLANET
- najor planet
- kajor planet
- jajor planet
- mzjor planet
- msjor planet
- mwjor planet
- mqjor planet
- mahor planet
- mamor planet
- makor planet
- maior planet
- mauor planet
- majir planet
- majkr planet
- majlr planet
- majpr planet
- maj0r planet
- maj9r planet
- majoe planet
- majod planet
Etymology of MAJOR PLANET
The word "major" is derived from the Latin word "major", which means "greater" or "larger". It entered the English language in the late 15th century.
The term "planet" is derived from the Greek word "planētēs", which means "wanderer". The ancient Greeks used this term for the celestial bodies that appeared to move against the fixed backdrop of stars.
The phrase "major planet" combines these two words, indicating a celestial body that is large and significant enough to be considered a planet. It distinguishes major planets from smaller celestial objects like asteroids or minor planets.
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