What does a planets visual features and characteristics tell you about its identity and place in our solar system?

 

 

Look at the order of the planets. 

1.  Which are the closest planets to the Sun? 

2.  Which are the furthest?

Look at this image, and use the resources on the QuickMooc to find more images.

1. What are some of  the visual characteristics of the planets?

2. What do you think causes these characteristics?