6.1.2 — The Solar System

Core

6.1.2.1 — Describe the Solar System as containing: the Sun, eight planets in order, dwarf planets, moons, asteroids, comets and other small bodies
6.1.2.2 — Know that the four inner planets are small and rocky, and the four outer planets are large and gaseous, explained using an accretion model involving gravity and rotating gas/dust clouds
6.1.2.3 — Know that gravitational field strength at a planet’s surface depends on its mass and decreases with distance
6.1.2.4 — Calculate time for light to travel significant Solar System distances
6.1.2.5 — Know that the Sun contains most of the mass of the Solar System, explaining why planets orbit the Sun
6.1.2.6 — Know that gravitational attraction of the Sun provides the force keeping objects in orbit

6.1.2.7 — Know that planets, minor planets and comets have elliptical orbits and that the Sun is not at the centre unless orbit is circular
6.1.2.8 — Analyse data on planetary orbital distance, orbital duration, density, temperature and gravitational field strength
6.1.2.9 — Know that the Sun’s gravitational field decreases with distance and that planetary orbital speeds decrease with distance
6.1.2.10 — Know that objects in elliptical orbits travel faster when closer to the Sun and explain using conservation of energy