Which Solar System term is correctly associated with position or orbit: “the closest planet to the Sun”, and also with “the shortest orbital period among the planets”?

Correct Answer: Option B — Mercury. Mercury is correct because it is the closest planet to the Sun. Mercury is also associated with the shortest orbital period among the planets. A further identifying fact is that Mercury is the shortest orbital period among the planets. Another useful fact is that Mercury is associated with it has no natural satellite. Why the other options are incorrect: Option A — Venus: It is the second planet from the Sun and is associated with the hottest planetary surface in the Solar System; those are the identifying facts of Venus. Option C — Earth: It is the third planet from the Sun and is associated with liquid surface water supports known life; those are the identifying facts of Earth. Option D — Mars: It is the fourth planet from the Sun and is associated with known as the Red Planet because of iron oxides; those are the identifying facts of Mars. Exam Takeaway: Link Mercury with “the closest planet to the Sun” and “the shortest orbital period among the planets” for quick revision.