Science Corner - Our Unique Planet

The earth is the third planet from the sun and also the only planet that is known to support life.


It is very easy for us to take for granted the climate and resources of the earth. But that should not be the case. 

Earth features sets it apart from every other planet in the universe. This is not to say that it is the most unique in the universe since man has not yet explored the whole universe in detail and by virtue of its immensity, may never succeed in doing so.

Nevertheless, our planet although it is small compared with the solar system and tiny in comparison with the whole universe, possess very special advantages. It is on account of these special advantages that it is able to provide us with a wide variety of natural resources.

Why The Earth Is Unique

1. Range of Temperature 

The range of temperature over most of the earth's surface is suitable for the formation of living matter and carbohydrates.

This narrow range of temperature is due to the fact that the earth's mass, through gravity, holds down a layer of gases which we call the atmosphere.

This blanket of gases provides oxygen for humans and animals, carbon dioxide for plant growth and water vapor for rainfall. And since the atmosphere is neither too thick nor too thin, it both moderates the amount of heat from the sun that reaches the earth and also acts as a blanket retaining heat by night.

As a result of the suitability of the earth's temperature range for the formation of living matter and carbohydrates, life can be maintained on earth today.

Moreover, the oxygen in the atmosphere which is being continuously renewed by plants is kept at a level sufficient for human and animal life.

2. Bodies Of Water

Life on earth cannot continue without water. That it continues is due to rainfall. This rainfall is evaporated water from the seas which make up about seventy percent of the earth's surface.

The regulation of the earth's temperature is also partly due to the oceans and seas which absorb heat during summer and warm the atmosphere during winter.

3. Absorption of Sun Rays

The sun emits deadly ultraviolet rays and there are many other harmful radiations in the outer space.

However, these rays and radiations are largely absorbed by the atmosphere and prevented from harming or destroying life on earth.

This atmospheric blanket stops these ultra-violet rays at about 400km from the earth's surface but the blanker permits some ultraviolet rays together with visible light rays and heat rays to penetrate right through to the surface. 

Since the blanket also regulates the heat intake and loss, it prevents extremes of temperature and as heat gain and loss are equal, the earth is kept at a steady average temperature.

4.Volcanic Activities

Because of the earth's size and weight, high pressures have been produced deep inside the earth's crust. As a result of these pressures and the resultant heat, volcanic actions have brought to the surface minerals and other natural resources such as magma, larva, cinder etc. 

Many minerals that would have otherwise remained buried beyond our reach are brought nearer to the surface to be mined and available for our use through this process. 

Rounding Up 

Truly, the earth is unique when compared to other bodies in the universe. 

There are several other features that make the earth unique and special. 
You could add them in the comments section. 


Ever heard about dwarf planets? Click this link to read