The Goldilocks Principle (link) refers to a planet's size and location from its star. Is it too close or too far away? Is it too big or too small?
Different Planets have different atmospheres. How does its distance from its star effect what kind of atmosphere it will have? Planets can also be too small to have an atmosphere. They do not have enough gravity to hold on to gases that would make up an atmosphere. Or so huge that their gravity would flatten us. We want a planet that isn't too hot or cold. It needs the right mix of Greenhouse Gases to keep us comfortable.
We will use the Goldilocks Principle to compare Earth's atmosphere with Mars, Venus, and Mercury. What makes Earth's atmosphere "just right."
Students will investigate a planet - use these links to help you:
MERCURY
VENUS
EARTH
MARS
