WHAT IS A PLANET?

Planets are among the many worlds and smaller objects that orbit the Sun. The formal
definition of planet, as voted on by the International Astronomical Union in 2006, is as
follows:
A planet is a celestial body that
(a) is in orbit around the Sun,
(b) has sufficient mass for its self-gravity to overcome rigid body forces so that it
assumes a hydrostatic equilibrium (nearly round) shape, and
(c) has cleared the neighbourhood around its orbit.
Under this definition, Pluto is NOT a planet, but has been deemed a dwarf planet
because it has not yet cleared its orbit. This definition is under discussion, particularly
by members of the planetary science community, and it may yet be further refined.

PLANET FAQ
 How many planets are there in our solar system? There are 8 planets in our
solar system.

 What is the smallest planet? Mercury is the smallest planet.

 What is the largest planet? Jupiter is the largest planet.

 Which planet is closest to the Sun? Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun.

 Which planet is farthest from the Sun? Neptune is the farthest planet from the
Sun.

 What is the coldest planet? On average Neptune is the coldest planet

 What is the hottest planet? Venus is the hottest planet.

 What are the inner planets? Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars are the inner planets.

 What are the outer planets? Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune are the outer
planets.

 Which planets have rings? Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune have rings.

 Is there life on other planets? Not that has been encountered so far!
How many of the planets of our solar system have rings and what are they? 4