Which among the following is known as a red planet ?

Planets are celestial bodies that orbit a star, such as the Sun, and they have cleared their orbits of other debris. Our solar system consists of eight major planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.

Now, which planet is known as red planet? The answer is Mars. Mars is famously referred to as the "Red Planet" due to its distinctive reddish appearance when observed from Earth. This reddish hue is caused by the high concentration of iron minerals in its soil, which undergo oxidation or rusting. The interaction of these iron minerals with oxygen in Mars' thin atmosphere results in the planet's characteristic red coloration.

Why is Mars Known as the Red Planet?

• The Martian soil contains an abundance of iron minerals.
• These minerals react with oxygen, forming a layer of iron oxide, commonly known as rust.
• This rust gives Mars its signature orange-red appearance, making it easily identifiable in the night sky.

Moreover, Mars' thin atmosphere is primarily composed of carbon dioxide (CO₂), along with smaller amounts of argon (Ar), nitrogen (N₂), and traces of oxygen and water vapor. The lack of dense atmospheric layers allows its reddish surface to be visible even from great distances.

Interesting Facts About Mars

• Mars is a rocky planet with a variety of surface features, including mountains, valleys, and dust storms.
• The oxidation process on Mars is similar to rusting on Earth, making the surface rich in Martian soil oxide.
• Despite its harsh conditions, Mars remains a key focus of space exploration, with missions studying its potential to support life.

To summarize, which planet is known as red planet? Mars is the answer, due to its iron-rich soil and unique atmospheric composition. The red coloration is a defining feature that has fascinated astronomers and scientists for centuries.