which description best explains why the inner planets called terrestrial? they are solid and earth like, they are visible from earth, they have no atmosphere, they have earthlike oceans.
The description that best explains why the inner planets are called terrestrial is that they are solid and earth-like. Terrestrial refers to planets that are similar to Earth in terms of their composition and structure, characterized by solid rocky surfaces.
The best description for why the inner planets are called terrestrial is that they are solid and earth-like.
The best description that explains why the inner planets are called terrestrial is that they are solid and earth-like. To understand this, let's break down the options provided:
1. They are solid and earth-like: This is the correct description. The inner planets, including Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars, are often referred to as terrestrial because they share similar characteristics with Earth. They are primarily composed of rock and metal, have solid surfaces, and are relatively closer to the Sun compared to the outer gas giant planets.
2. They are visible from Earth: While it is true that the inner planets are visible from Earth, this does not directly explain why they are called terrestrial. The term "terrestrial" is based on their composition rather than their visibility.
3. They have no atmosphere: This statement is not entirely correct. While some inner planets like Mercury and Mars have thin atmospheres, they are not as substantial as Earth's atmosphere. However, the presence or absence of an atmosphere is not the primary reason why the inner planets are called terrestrial.
4. They have Earth-like oceans: None of the inner planets possess Earth-like oceans. Earth is unique in the solar system as the only planet known to have significant bodies of liquid water.
In summary, the reason why the inner planets are called terrestrial is that they are solid and earth-like in composition, not because they are visible from Earth, lack an atmosphere, or have Earth-like oceans.