Earth vs. Kepler-90b

Attribute	Earth	Kepler-90b
Distance from Sun	93 million miles	2,545 light years
Size	12,742 km diameter	Unknown
Atmosphere	Nitrogen, Oxygen	Unknown
Temperature	Average 15°C	Unknown
Orbit	365 days	Unknown

Introduction

Earth and Kepler-90b are two planets that exist in our vast universe, each with its own unique characteristics and attributes. While Earth is the only planet we know of that supports life, Kepler-90b is an exoplanet located in a distant solar system. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two celestial bodies.

Size and Composition

Earth is the third planet from the Sun in our solar system and has a diameter of approximately 12,742 kilometers. It is composed of a variety of elements, including iron, oxygen, silicon, and magnesium. In contrast, Kepler-90b is a gas giant exoplanet that is about 2.5 times the size of Earth. It is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, similar to Jupiter in our own solar system.

Atmosphere

Earth's atmosphere is made up of nitrogen (78%), oxygen (21%), and trace amounts of other gases such as carbon dioxide and argon. This composition is crucial for supporting life as we know it. On the other hand, Kepler-90b has a thick atmosphere that consists mainly of hydrogen and helium, with no known signs of oxygen or other gases necessary for life to exist.

Surface Conditions

Earth has a diverse range of surface conditions, including oceans, mountains, deserts, and forests. It has a moderate climate that allows for the existence of liquid water, a key ingredient for life. Kepler-90b, on the other hand, is a hot gas giant with no solid surface. Its extreme temperatures and lack of water make it inhospitable for life as we know it.

Orbit and Distance from Sun

Earth orbits the Sun at an average distance of about 93 million miles (150 million kilometers) and completes one orbit in approximately 365 days. This distance allows for the right amount of sunlight to reach Earth, providing the energy needed for life to thrive. Kepler-90b, on the other hand, is located much farther away from its star, Kepler-90, in the constellation Draco. It orbits its star at a distance that is much closer than Earth's distance from the Sun, resulting in scorching temperatures on the planet.

Potential for Life

Earth is the only planet in our solar system known to support life. Its moderate temperatures, liquid water, and diverse ecosystems make it a unique and habitable world. Kepler-90b, on the other hand, is unlikely to harbor life as we know it due to its extreme conditions, lack of a solid surface, and inhospitable atmosphere. While there may be other planets in the universe capable of supporting life, Kepler-90b is not one of them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Earth and Kepler-90b are two vastly different planets with their own distinct attributes. Earth's moderate climate, diverse surface conditions, and life-sustaining atmosphere make it a unique and precious world in our solar system. Kepler-90b, on the other hand, is a gas giant exoplanet with extreme temperatures, no solid surface, and an inhospitable atmosphere. While both planets are fascinating in their own right, Earth remains the only known planet capable of supporting life as we know it.