Are there 8 or 12 planets?

Earth is the third planet from the Sun and is the only known planet to support life. Its unique combination of distance from the Sun, liquid water, and atmospheric composition make it an ideal environment for life to thrive.

The eight planets that orbit the Sun are Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Each planet has its unique characteristics and position in the solar system.

Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun and is known for its red color, which is caused by iron oxide on its surface. Mars has a thin atmosphere and a cold climate, but there is evidence of water ice on its surface and in its polar caps.

Mercury is the smallest and innermost planet in the solar system. It is named after the Roman messenger god due to its swift orbit around the Sun. Mercury is also known for its extreme temperature differences, ranging from extremely hot during the day to extremely cold at night.

Venus is the second planet from the Sun and is often referred to as Earth's "sister planet" due to its similar size and composition. However, Venus has a dense atmosphere composed mainly of carbon dioxide, which traps heat and creates a runaway greenhouse effect, making it the hottest planet in the solar system.