What Makes Earth Habitable?

1. Position: The Goldilocks Zone

Earth is located at just the right distance from the Sun. This region is called the Habitable Zone or Goldilocks Zone.

• Too Close: Water evaporates (like on Venus).
• Too Far: Water freezes (like on Mars).
• Just Right: Water exists as liquid, which is essential for life.

2. Size and Gravity

Earth is massive enough to have strong gravity.

• Role: Gravity holds the atmosphere in place.
• If Earth were smaller (like Mars), the gravity would be too weak, and the air would escape into space.
• The atmosphere provides Oxygen for breathing and contains the Ozone Layer, which blocks harmful UV rays.

3. Magnetic Field

Earth acts like a giant magnet due to the movement of molten iron in its core.

• Role: It creates a protective shield called the Magnetosphere.
• Function: It deflects Solar Wind and Cosmic Rays (harmful high-energy particles) from space, protecting the atmosphere and life.