Facts About Earth

Earth is the third planet from the Sun in our solar system. It is the only planet we know that supports life. Earth has everything living creatures need, such as air, water, and land.

The thin layer of gases that surrounds Earth is called the atmosphere. The atmosphere contains air, which is a mix of gases like oxygen and nitrogen. Oxygen is important because people and animals need it to breathe. The atmosphere also protects us from the Sun’s harmful rays and helps keep Earth warm.

Most of Earth’s surface is covered by water. Water is found in oceans, lakes, rivers, and even underground. Water is always moving around Earth in a process called the water cycle. The water cycle has three main parts: evaporation (when water turns into vapor and rises into the air), condensation (when vapor cools and forms clouds), and precipitation (when water falls as rain, snow, or hail). This cycle provides water for plants, animals, and people.

Earth’s surface is made up of many different landforms, such as mountains, valleys, plains, and deserts. Landforms shape where people live and what plants and animals can grow in an area. For example, forests grow where there is plenty of rain, while deserts have very little water.

The part of Earth where all living things exist is called the biosphere. The biosphere includes land, water, and air. All living things, from tiny insects to huge whales, are part of the biosphere. People depend on Earth’s resources for food, water, and shelter. It is important to take care of our planet so that it can continue to support life.

Interesting Fact: The deepest place on Earth is the Mariana Trench in the Pacific Ocean. It is deeper than Mount Everest is tall!