Fact of the Day: 22/10/2021
Did you know that even though Mercury is the closest planet to the sun, the hottest planet in our solar system, in terms of surface temperature, is Venus? Temperatures reach up to 475˚ C (900˚ F) on its surface, compared to Mercury’s surface temperature high of 430˚ C (800˚ F).
Why is Venus so hot? Because of a runaway greenhouse effect. The carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere, as well as the thick clouds of sulfuric acid, trap heat from the sun, heating the planet to lead-melting temperatures.
Reference(s):
- https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets/mercury/in-depth/
- https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets/venus/overview/
Fact Author: Ace
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