Category: Astronomy

  • Why Kong Toys Are Popular for Dogs

    Why Kong Toys Are Popular for Dogs

    There’s something oddly satisfying about watching a dog wrestle, roll, and lick every corner of a Kong toy like it’s the last snack on Earth. These bright red rubber cones have built up a solid reputation in the pet world, and for good reason—they’re basically boredom busters in chewable form. But a Kong is only as good as what you cram inside it. Get the filling right, and you’ll have a happy, tired dog who’s too busy to chew on your shoes. Get it wrong, and you might find that Kong abandoned halfway through, your dog shooting you a side-eye that says, “Really?”

    Kongs are one of the most popular dog enrichment toys, offering mental stimulation, stress relief, and tasty rewards—all in one durable package.

    So let’s unpack why these toys are a go-to for so many pet parents, and how to turn them into snack-packed puzzles that keep your pup curious, calm, and content.

    Why Kong Toys Are Popular for Dogs

    There’s more to a Kong than just being a glorified chew toy. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of dog enrichment—it entertains, it soothes, and if you do it right, it even feeds.

    Mental Gymnastics for Your Dog’s Brain

    Dogs, much like us, need something to chew on mentally. Left to their own devices with nothing to do, they’ll start turning your lounge cushions or garden hose into projects. A stuffed Kong gives them a challenge to solve—and they love a good puzzle. Each lick, bite, and paw swipe is them working through a task. It keeps the brain ticking, especially helpful for high-energy breeds who need more than a quick stroll to feel fulfilled.

    A Handy Fix for Fidgety Pups

    If you’ve ever come home to a chewed chair leg or heard your neighbour complain about your dog’s chorus of howls while you’re at work, you’re not alone. Separation stress and boredom are two of the biggest triggers for mischief. Giving your dog a stuffed Kong before you head out helps shift their focus from “Where are you going?” to “What’s in this thing and how do I get it out?”

    A Slower Way to Snack

    Dogs who inhale their food like it’s a timed competition benefit massively from Kongs too. When kibble’s jammed in tight with some sticky filler, it turns every meal into a slow-feed mission. It’s like turning a drive-through into a three-course meal—better for digestion and easier on your carpet if your dog’s the type who eats too fast and pays for it later.

    What Makes a Good Kong Filling

    Before you grab the nearest spread or spoon leftovers into a Kong, it pays to think it through. Not everything in your fridge belongs inside a dog toy.

    Texture is Half the Battle

    You want a mix that clings, squishes, or sprinkles—but doesn’t plop out the second your dog starts chewing. Soft blends that smear along the inside are great, but mixing in chunkier bits keeps your dog working longer. It’s a balance of spread and surprise.

    Play it Safe

    It goes without saying, but some ingredients belong nowhere near your dog’s bowl—let alone their chew toy. Skip anything that includes chocolate, raisins, onion, garlic, grapes, xylitol (often found in peanut butter), or anything spicy. If it’s questionable, it’s better left out.

    Taste Matters More Than You Think

    If it smells good and tastes better, your dog’s going to keep coming back for more. But this isn’t the place for overly salty, fatty, or sugary options. Stick with things that are dog-safe, flavourful, and easy on the stomach. Think mild, natural foods that pack a little punch—like cooked meat, fruit purée, or plain yogurt.

    Make it Last

    A Kong that’s licked clean in 30 seconds flat isn’t doing much good. The idea is to keep your dog focused for a decent stretch of time. Stuff it tight, freeze it if needed, and layer ingredients like you’re building a burrito.

    Simple Everyday Fillers

    You don’t need to turn your kitchen into a gourmet dog café to whip up something worthwhile for a Kong. Most of the best fillings are sitting in your pantry or fridge already—no fancy prep required, just a little common sense and a spoon.

    Peanut Butter (the right kind)
    An old favourite, and for good reason. Dogs go bonkers for it. But there’s a catch—always check the label for xylitol, a sugar substitute that’s incredibly toxic to dogs. Stick to plain, unsalted, xylitol-free peanut butter and you’re golden. A small smear can be used to seal in kibble or mixed with other ingredients for a sticky, savoury blend.

    Dry Kibble
    The trusty go-to. On its own it’s a bit boring, but when combined with something moist—like mashed banana or canned pumpkin—it becomes a crunchy surprise. You can pour in dry kibble, shake it around, then drizzle a wet ingredient to keep it from falling straight back out.

    Bananas
    Soft, sweet, and easy to mash—bananas are a hit with most dogs. Rich in potassium and fibre, they also add a naturally sticky base to hold in dry pieces. You can mix banana with a dollop of peanut butter or a spoonful of cottage cheese for a creamier consistency.

    Cottage Cheese
    Low in lactose and packed with protein, a small amount of cottage cheese can act as the glue that holds your Kong mix together. Just don’t go overboard—some dogs don’t process dairy all that well. A spoonful is more than enough.

    Canned Pumpkin (pure, not pie filling)
    This orange mush isn’t just a Halloween leftover—it’s actually great for your dog’s digestion. It’s thick enough to stay put inside the Kong and can be layered with dry treats to mix up the texture. Make sure it’s 100% pumpkin, though—no spices, sugar, or extras.

    Frozen Kong Recipes for Longer Play

    Sometimes you want the Kong to last a bit longer—maybe while you’re out running errands, or when your dog needs something to do other than bark at passing cars. That’s where your freezer comes in.

    Yogurt and Blueberry Blend
    Mix a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt with a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries. Spoon it into the Kong and freeze overnight. The result? A tangy, chilly treat that’s rich in antioxidants and keeps your dog licking away for ages.

    Mashed Sweet Potato and Shredded Chicken
    This one smells like a Sunday roast and goes down a treat. Bake or boil a sweet potato, mash it up, and mix in some plain shredded chicken breast—nothing seasoned or oily. Fill the Kong, pop it in the freezer, and let it set. This combo offers protein, fibre, and a soft texture that freezes well.

    Stuff, Freeze, and Layer
    For an added challenge, layer your Kong like a trifle. Start with a spoon of yogurt, then a layer of kibble, followed by mashed banana, and top it off with a peanut butter plug. Freeze the whole thing for a Kong that takes effort, focus, and some serious tongue gymnastics to finish.

    Low-Calorie Options for Overweight Dogs

    If your dog’s waistline is starting to vanish under a growing fluff of belly, it might be time to get creative without piling on the calories. Kongs don’t have to be packed with rich, fatty treats. With a bit of planning, they can be both satisfying and slimming.

    Carrot Purée
    Carrots are low in calories but still bring a little sweetness and crunch to the table. Steam or boil them until soft, mash them into a paste, and spoon the mixture into your Kong. You can even add a dash of water or bone broth (low sodium, of course) to loosen it up.

    Apple Chunks (No Seeds)
    Crisp, fresh apple can give your dog that juicy crunch they love without going overboard on sugar. Chop into small, manageable pieces and either freeze them on their own or mix with a bit of pumpkin or carrot mash. Just steer clear of the core and seeds—those are a no-go.

    Plain Rice or Cooked Quinoa
    It doesn’t sound exciting to us, but dogs love it. Use cooked, plain grains as a filler to bulk out your Kong without adding unnecessary fats. Mix with veggies, or a smidge of lean meat for flavour. It’s cheap, filling, and great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

    Green Beans, Peas, and Other Soft Veggies
    Soft-cooked vegetables are the secret weapon of low-calorie snacking. These are great as part of a frozen blend or mashed into a paste to plug up the bottom of the Kong. Just don’t use anything with added seasoning or oil.

    Tips for Cleaning and Kong Maintenance

    A Kong might look like a tough little chew toy, but stuff it with food once and you’ll see how quickly it turns into a petri dish. Cleaning it out properly isn’t just about smell—it’s about keeping your dog safe from germs and leftover residue that can spoil.

    Rinse Right Away
    Don’t let food crust over inside the toy. As soon as your dog’s done with it—or loses interest—give it a quick rinse with warm water to loosen anything sticky or dried out.

    Soak in Soapy Water
    Use a pet-safe detergent and let the Kong sit for 10–15 minutes in warm, soapy water. A bottle brush or toothbrush comes in handy for scrubbing the inside without wrecking the rubber.

    Dishwasher Safe? Yes—But Check the Label
    Most classic Kongs are top-rack dishwasher safe. Still, always check the fine print on the packaging or the Kong brand’s official site. It beats melting your toy into a puddle of rubber bits.

    Inspect for Wear and Tear
    Every once in a while, give your Kong a once-over. Cracks, missing chunks, or serious scuffing mean it’s time to retire it and grab a fresh one. No toy lasts forever, and you don’t want your dog chewing off a piece that could cause trouble later.

    Conclusion

    The next time your dog gives you that “I’m bored” stare, reach for your Kong and mix something new. Test a different combo. Freeze a few ahead of time. Find what clicks with your dog’s taste, size, energy, and health goals. And above all—make it fun.

    Kong stuffing might look simple, but it’s one of those little things that can make a big difference in your dog’s daily routine.

  • The Effects of Pets at Home on Children

    The Effects of Pets at Home on Children

    There’s something undeniably special about the bond between kids and animals. Whether it’s a dog that follows them everywhere, a cat that tolerates their antics, or a rabbit they lovingly feed every morning, pets have a way of becoming part of the family—sometimes even the favourite family member!

    Across the globe, millions of households include pets, and for good reason. Research suggests that growing up with animals isn’t just about companionship—it has real, measurable benefits on a child’s emotional well-being, social skills, and even physical health. While there are challenges (allergies, messes, and the occasional chewed-up homework), most pet-owning parents would agree that the good far outweighs the bad.

    This article breaks down how having a pet can shape a child’s development in emotional, social, cognitive, and physical ways, backed by expert insights and scientific studies. Whether you’re a parent already raising kids alongside a furry friend or considering adding a pet to the mix, this guide will help you see just how much animals can influence childhood for the better.

    Emotional & Psychological Benefits

    Companionship & Emotional Support

    Anyone who’s watched a child confide their deepest thoughts to a pet knows that animals make the best listeners. No judgement, no interruptions—just an ever-present source of comfort.

    Studies have shown that children who grow up with pets often experience lower levels of stress and anxiety. Research from the University of Florida found that kids who had a dog nearby during stressful situations showed lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels than those who didn’t. Essentially, pets act as fluffy little therapists, helping children feel secure in times of distress.

    For children dealing with loneliness, depression, or major life changes (such as divorce or moving to a new school), having a pet provides stability and unconditional affection. Dogs, in particular, are known for their emotional attunement—many can sense when their little human is upset and will offer comfort in their own way, whether through nuzzles, tail wags, or simply sitting beside them.

    Empathy & Emotional Intelligence

    Taking care of a pet teaches far more than just feeding schedules and bath time routines. It fosters something deeper—empathy. When kids learn to read an animal’s body language and emotions, they also start to become more attuned to human emotions.

    A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that children who regularly interacted with pets displayed higher levels of empathy and compassion compared to those who didn’t have animals at home. This makes sense—when a child understands that a dog cowers when scared or a cat flicks its tail when annoyed, they begin to apply that same sensitivity to people around them.

    Psychologists suggest that this early emotional learning can have long-term benefits, helping kids build stronger relationships, better conflict resolution skills, and a deeper sense of responsibility.

    Social & Behavioral Development

    Improved Communication & Confidence

    Talking to a pet might not seem like much, but for many children—especially those who are shy or struggle with social skills—it can be a vital lifeline during times of stress. Pets offer a judgement-free audience, allowing kids to practice speaking and expressing themselves without fear of embarrassment.

    In fact, research from the University of Cambridge found that children who have pets tend to develop stronger social skills and experience lower rates of social anxiety. This is especially noticeable in kids with developmental challenges such as autism, where interactions with animals can help bridge the gap between non-verbal and verbal communication.

    Responsibility & Routine Building

    Most kids aren’t naturally organised or disciplined. But throw a pet into the mix, and suddenly, they’re learning what it means to stick to a routine. Feeding times, walks, grooming, vet visits—all these responsibilities help children develop accountability and consistency.

    Child development experts agree that kids who take on age-appropriate pet care tasks develop a greater sense of self-discipline and dependability. Knowing that a pet is relying on them builds a strong sense of responsibility—something that carries over into other aspects of life, from schoolwork to friendships.

    Cognitive & Educational Benefits

    Encouraging Curiosity & Learning

    Kids are naturally curious creatures, and having a pet at home turns everyday moments into learning opportunities. Why does the dog tilt its head when we talk? How come the cat’s whiskers twitch when it’s hunting a toy? What does a guinea pig’s squeak actually mean?

    Observing animal behavior sparks questions, which leads to learning. Many child psychologists believe that growing up with pets encourages scientific thinking and a deeper appreciation for nature and biology. For younger kids, simple activities like feeding a fish, watching a dog respond to commands, or even seeing how a cat reacts to different sounds can teach cause and effect—an essential part of cognitive development.

    Pets & Reading Skills

    For kids who struggle with reading confidence, pets can be the ultimate non-judgmental reading buddy. Animal-assisted literacy programs, where children read aloud to therapy animals, have gained global popularity because of their impact on improving fluency and comprehension.

    The simple presence of a calm, quiet animal reduces performance anxiety, helping kids build confidence in a way that’s free from pressure or correction. Even at home, kids often feel more comfortable practicing reading with a pet sitting beside them. There’s no risk of being laughed at, corrected, or rushed—just a set of furry ears listening patiently.

    Physical Health Benefits

    Increased Physical Activity

    Many parents would agree that kids today spend way too much time glued to screens. One of the biggest perks of having a pet (especially a dog) is that it gets them moving. Whether it’s playing in the backyard, going for walks, or chasing a ball, pets encourage outdoor activity without it feeling like a chore.

    Beyond just exercise, playing with pets improves motor skills, coordination, and reflexes—especially for younger children who are still developing these abilities.

    Stronger Immune System

    If you’re worried about pets making your child sick, science actually suggests the opposite. Research has found that kids who grow up around animals tend to have stronger immune systems and lower rates of allergies.

    A study published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that infants exposed to pets in their first year of life were significantly less likely to develop asthma and common allergies. The theory? Early exposure to pet dander and bacteria trains the immune system to be less sensitive, reducing the likelihood of allergic reactions later in life.

    Potential Challenges & Considerations

    While pets bring an incredible amount of joy and learning, they also come with challenges that parents should be aware of.

    Allergies & Health Risks

    If your child has known allergies, bringing a pet into the home needs careful consideration. Some pets shed more dander than others, and certain breeds (like hypoallergenic dogs such as Maltese) may be a better fit. Before committing, consult with an allergist or try spending time around similar animals to see if symptoms appear.

    Teaching Boundaries & Safety

    Young children don’t always know how to behave around animals, and not all pets tolerate rough handling. Teaching kids how to read a pet’s body language is crucial for safety.

    Veterinarians and animal behaviorists recommend:

    • Supervised interactions between small children and pets, especially larger animals.
    • Teaching kids to respect when a pet wants space (e.g., no pulling tails, poking eyes, or hugging too tightly).
    • Instructing kids on what to do if a pet seems agitated—walking away calmly rather than screaming or running.

    By setting ground rules, you reduce the risk of bites, scratches, or stress for both the child and the pet.

    Conclusion

    Growing up with a pet can help kids learn responsibility, build emotional intelligence, and gain valuable life lessons that stick well into adulthood.

    That said, pet ownership is a commitment. It’s important to choose a pet that fits your family’s lifestyle, educate kids on proper pet care, and create a home where both child and animal feel safe and loved.

  • Car Safety For Children

    Car Safety For Children

    Ensuring the safety of children in vehicles is a paramount concern for parents and caregivers. Car accidents are a leading cause of injury and death among children, making it essential to adopt comprehensive safety measures. From the proper use of car seats to instilling good habits as children grow, there are several steps that can be taken to safeguard young passengers.

    Car Seats

    The importance of using appropriate car seats cannot be overstated. These seats are designed to keep children safe in the event of a collision by absorbing impact forces and preventing ejection from the vehicle. However, not all car seats are created equal, and choosing the right one depends on the child’s age, weight, and height. You can shop car seats at nunababy.com/au.

    • Infant car seats are designed for the youngest children, typically up to 12 months old or until they reach the maximum weight and height limits set by the manufacturer. These seats should always be installed rear-facing, as this position offers the best protection for an infant’s head, neck, and spine.
    • Convertible car seats can be used in both rear and forward positions, making them a versatile option as the child grows. Experts recommend keeping children rear-facing for as long as you can, ideally until at least age two or when they exceed the seat’s rear-facing limits.
    • Booster seats come into play once a child outgrows the forward-facing car seat, usually around age 4 to 7. Booster seats ensure that the vehicle’s seat belt fits properly across the child’s chest and lap. Without a booster, seat belts can sit too high on a child’s stomach or neck, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.

    Proper Installation and Use

    Correct installation of car seats is critical to their effectiveness. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), around half of car seats are installed incorrectly. Parents should carefully follow the car seat manufacturer’s instructions and consult their vehicle’s manual for specific guidelines. Many local fire stations, police departments, and hospitals offer car seat inspection services to help to make sure they’re installed properly. 

    Additionally, it’s important to consistently use car seats and seat belts. Children should always be buckled in, even on short trips or in rideshare vehicles. Remember, airbags can be deadly to young children, so children under 13 should always ride in the back seat.

    Creating Safe Habits

    As children grow older, transitioning them from booster seats to seat belts alone is an important step. However, the seat belt must fit properly—across the shoulder and chest, not the neck, and low across the hips, not the stomach. Parents should model good behavior by always wearing their seat belts, as children often mimic adult behavior.

    Educating children on the importance of car safety is also crucial. Teach them to stay seated and buckle up every time they’re in the car, and explain the reasons behind these rules. Establishing these habits early on can help to make sure they become lifelong practices.

    Additional Safety Tips

    In addition to using car seats and seat belts, never leave children unattended in a vehicle. Cars can heat up rapidly, leading to fatal heatstroke. Also, secure any loose objects in the car, as these can become dangerous projectiles in the event of a sudden stop or collision.

    By following these guidelines, parents can significantly reduce the risk of injury to their children while traveling. Car safety is an ongoing process, and staying informed about best practices and product recalls is key to keeping young passengers safe on the road.

  • 5 Essential Tools for Every Essay Writer

    5 Essential Tools for Every Essay Writer

    Writing is a tough vocation as you are juggling multiple tasks and assignments, from simple to complex. It is necessary to have an arsenal of tools that you can depend on whenever you get down to work. Apart from skills and training, tools are the most important aspect of reaching your goals. This is where this blog post comes to the fore.

    In this blog, we will take a closer look at what essay writers do daily and how they can improve their workflow using excellent tools. So, let’s get started!

    What Does an Essay Writer Do?

    When you look at the operations of a writer, writing is the most obvious one, but not the only one. There are other things that they need to care of before submitting the text for approval. This section is all about showing you the routine of essay writers.

    Researching

    Before putting the pen on the proverbial paper, it is important to gather all the important information to base your essay on. Whether you are writing essays for sale or working exclusively for a client, you need to get the most recent data on the subject to ensure the quality and integrity of the text.

    Writing

    Once all the information is there, it is time to start writing. Professional writers do not wait for long when they have all the data. Instead, they move quickly and make good time with the text. This results in completed text in minutes. Of course, there will be errors but that’s why they have a dedicated proofreading or editing phase.

    Editing

    In this phase, they take a step back and take a look at the text critically. They need to identify the errors and then rectify them, ideally using an online tool like Grammarly and Hemingway Editor. The issues they normally cover include spelling, grammar, syntax, context, and so on.

    Essentials for Essay Writers

    Now that we have established a routine for essay writers https://eduwriter.ai/ on a typical day, it is time to explore the essential tools they need for work. This section is dedicated to that!

    Rewrite My Essay Tool https://eduwriter.ai/rewrite-my-essay

    Say you need to deliver an essay and you are in a pinch. Instead of starting from scratch, you can get a well-written essay from someone else and then run it through a rewriter. The new essay will be unique in terms of phrasing and wording but the core message remains the same. There will be no errors or detected plagiarism in the new text, which is a bonus.

    Grammarly

    This tool does not require any introduction as it has become synonymous with essentials for writing and editing essays and papers. Grammarly is free and offers suggestions for grammar in all respects. The free basic version offers limited coverage, but this should be enough for most writers.

    Research Tool

    These tools are important because they help writers with the collection of first-hand data. For instance, if you are writing a paper that is based on plausible statistics, you need to make sure that all the bases are covered. Doing all the heavy lifting manually could take a lot of time and effort, so the research tools are real savers of the day.

    Word Processor

    No writing is possible without a word processor. There are two camps in the writing world, each one with its preferences. These are Microsoft Word and Google Docs. No matter which one you prefer, they both have their pros and cons. The best way to pick the right one for your needs is to play around with the two before sticking to the single one.

    Plagiarism Checker

    Finally, when you are done writing and editing an essay, it is time to check the copied content before submitting it for evaluation or publication. This is where you need a plagiarism checker that can check the integrity of the text in real time against billions of databases. Again, a free version of this tool should suffice for your needs.

    Wrap Up

    That’s it for the essentials that an essay writer needs to work their best. We have identified and explored the tools based on standard practices. We hope that your productivity takes a boost by using these tools and gadgets. 

  • Pacific Ocean Facts – The Largest Ocean in the World

    Pacific Ocean Facts – The Largest Ocean in the World

    The Pacific Ocean is the largest of the Earth’s oceanic divisions. It extends from the Arctic Ocean in the north to the Southern Ocean (or, depending on definition, to Antarctica) in the south and is bounded by Asia and Australiain the west and the Americas in the east.

    At 165.25 million square kilometers (63.8 million square miles) in area, this largest division of the World Ocean—and, in turn, the hydrosphere—covers about 46% of the Earth’s water surface and about one-third of its total surface area, making it larger than all of the Earth’s land area combined.[1]

    The equator subdivides it into the North Pacific Ocean and South Pacific Ocean, with two exceptions: theGalápagos and Gilbert Islands, while straddling the equator, are deemed wholly within the South Pacific.[2] TheMariana Trench in the western North Pacific is the deepest point in the world, reaching a depth of 10,911 metres (35,797 ft).[3]

    Though the peoples of Asia and Oceania have travelled the Pacific Ocean since prehistoric times, the eastern Pacific was first sighted by Europeans in the early 16th century when Spanish explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboacrossed the Isthmus of Panama in 1513 and discovered the great “southern sea” which he named Mar del Sur. The ocean’s current name was coined by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan during the Spanishcircumnavigation of the world in 1521, as he encountered favourable winds on reaching the ocean. He called itMar Pacifico, which in both Portuguese and Spanish means “peaceful sea”

    Facts and Figures

    Geography

    Pacific Ocean Islands 

    Climate

    Water

    Pacific Ocean Currents

    pacific ocean fish

     

    where is pacific ocean located

    how deep is the pacific ocean

    who named the pacific ocean 

     

    • The mighty Pacific is the largest ocean on our planet
    • It covers 65,436,200 square miles (169,479,000 square kilometres), which is 30% of the planet’s entire surface area (larger than all the land on earth, combined)
    • Average depth 4,188 metres (14,000 feet)
    • It extends from the Arctic down to the Antarctic and from Australiaand Asia across to the Americas

    The Pacific basin is surrounded by volcanoes and earthquake zones (called the Ring of Fire). About 80% of the world’s earthquakes take place in this area.

    The largest coral reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef, lies in the Pacific Ocean just off the coast of Australia.  Also, there are approximately 25,000 islands in the Pacific, many more than in any other ocean.

  • 5 Reasons Why Moms are Loving Instant Pots

    5 Reasons Why Moms are Loving Instant Pots

    If you don’t already own an instant pot at home, you’ve probably heard your friends or family members raving about them, especially people with young children. Taking care of kids, especially if you are trying to juggle another job at the same time can cause a lot of headaches. However, there are plenty of modern appliances readily available that can make your life that little bit easier. 

    Most moms will welcome a new kitchen appliance with open arms if it is going to make her life easier. Mothers around the globe have been praising their instant pots since they first arrived on the market a little over decade ago. When they first hit the shelves, many felt that instant pots were just a fad, like other appliances that seem to come and go, but they have been growing in popularity ever since 2010. 

    1. Cleaning is Quick and Easy

    After spending your evening helping with the kids’ homework, preparing a nice meal, hovering over a stove to make sure the ingredients are cooked properly, you then have to clean up after everyone. 

    Unfortunately, an instant pot doesn’t have a self cleaner (one of the only features it doesn’t seem to have), but cleaning up after is a breeze. You can place the device’s body into the dishwasher, and hand wash the lid. It will only take you a minute, which leaves you with some spare time to get on with your other choirs. You won’t have to spend thirty minutes scrubbing grease off the device, unlike other traditional cooking equipment. Who knows, you might even get some downtime to yourself! 

    1. They are Safer than Standard Pressure Cookers

    Most pressure cookers are cheap to buy, but the problem homecooks face, especially those with a family, is the dangers they can cause. Nobody wants a cooking appliance in their kitchen which can injure someone. 

    Pressure cookers have a reputation for being unsafe and finicky. Instant pots on the other hand have a range of safety features installed to ensure you and your family members in the kitchen are safe. These safety mechanisms will help you sleep at night, as you won’t have to worry about the device exploding anytime soon. Unlike conventional non-stick surfaces, instant pot’s consist of stainless steel. Non-stick surfaces can often lead to food poisoning, which is a major safety concern for moms who are feeding their loved ones. 

    Another issue a lot of moms have come across when using a pressure cooker is the whistling noise it tends to make when it releases pressure. The loud noise can scare a young child, which is the last thing a mother wants to hear while she is in the middle of cooking dinner. 

    1. Instant Pots can Help You Make Tasty Desserts

    Every mother wants to treat their family with deserts now and again. The device allows you to make the following:

    • Pies
    • Cakes
    • Savory Dishes
    • Bread
    • Homemade Yogurt

    Some moms buy two separate instant pots, one for making dinner and the other for cooking desserts. If you are hoping to make nutritious yogurts with an instant pot, try to find one that has a yogurt button. This feature will help you create yogurts for all the family in a short space of time. 

    1. Homemade Wine

    After another long day, sitting down sipping on a well deserved glass of wine is well deserved. But instead of buying your favorite bottle of wine from the local alcohol store, why not make your own with your trusty instant pot. Unlike cooking food with an instant pot, making wine can consume a lot of time because you will have to wait for it to ferment. If you can remain patient, your instant pot will do all of the hard work needed to make nice wine. Before you start to make wine, make sure you have the proper ingredients in your kitchen, including wine yeast. 

    1. You Won’t Need Cookbooks

    Most mothers have invested in cookbooks that they never use. Thanks to the world wide web and the popularity of instant pots, the internet is packed with different recipes. If you are looking for new things to cook for your little ones, go via Corrie Cooks. Parents will have a wide range of different cooking options to choose from, many of which are tasty and healthy. Some kids are fussy eaters, which can cause all sorts of headaches for moms. An instant pot will help mothers prepare and cook delicious healthy meals for those who don’t have a big appetite. In many households, this multifunctional cooker could prove to be a big gamechanger. 

    Conclusion

    Kids can cost a family a fortune, especially when it comes to dinner time. There are plenty of instant pots out there that cost $100 or less, but in the long run, they could save you a lot of cash. They consume very little electricity, they can help you reduce the amount of food waste, and you won’t have to spend money on a new slow cooker, a pressure cooker, a yogurt maker, the list goes on. Some mothers who are still bottle feeding their babies use instant pots as a bottle sanitizer too! Is there anything the appliance cannot do? Because they are energy efficient, they can save you a lot of money on utility bills. 

  • Galileo Galilei Facts for Kids | Father of Modern Physics

    Galileo Galilei Facts for Kids | Father of Modern Physics

    Galileo Galilei was a famous physicist, astronomer, mathematician and philosopher of Italy. During 14th and 17th centuries, he made some revolutionary discoveries in the field of physics and astronomy. Due to his remarkable achievements, Galileo is rightly regarded as the father of observational astronomy. In the field of astronomy, he discovered the four largest satellites of Jupiter; he proved through his telescope the phases of Venus for the first time; and he also observed the sunspots. He invented several instruments like geometric and military compass. At the age of eight years, the family of Galileo traveled to Florence. For the next two years, he stayed with Jacopo Borghini. One of his ancestors was Galileo Bonaiuti, who was a teacher as well as physician in Florence. He lived in the 14th century. The family of Galileo changed their surname to pay respect to him. Previously, their family names ended on Bonaiuti. For that reason, the surname of Galileo comes from his first name. Let’s dive deep into his life in Galileo Galilei facts for kids!

    A Quick Guide to Galileo Galilei Facts for Kids

    Year and Place of birth: 1564 in Pisa, Italy

    Father: Vincenzo Galilei (Italian lutenist, music theorist and composer)

    Reason for Fame: Remarkable discoveries in Physics and Astronomy

    Title: Father of observational astronomy

    Discoveries: Four largest satellites of Jupiter, phases of Venus and sunspots

    Inventions: Geometric and military compass

    Fascinating Galileo Galilei Facts for Kids

    • He took earlier education in Camaldolese Monastery at Vallombrosa near Florence.
    • In order to earn medical degree, he attended the University of Pisa.

    Galileo Galilei portrait

    While studying medicine in 1581, he witnessed the swinging movement of bronze chandelier moving back and forth in cathedral of Pisa. What he actually observed was that (irrespective of the amplitude) the pendulum took about the same time in to and fro direction. He calculated this movement with his pulse. He took two pendulums in his home, experimented on them and found the same result.

    • Galileo had to study medicine because physicians at the time earned higher income.
    • He attended a class on geometry not on purpose and later asked his father to allow him to study mathematics.

    Galileo Galilei Accomplishments

    • At the University of Padua in 1592, Galileo taught mechanics, geometry and astronomy for about 18 years. It was during this time when he made famous discoveries in science like kinematics of motion.
    • He invented a device which could note down the changes in temperature as the liquid inside it rises and falls accordingly. This device was known as thermoscope and set the tone for the creation of thermometer.
    • He was among one of the first thinkers of modern science to state that laws of nature are mathematical.
    • In 1609, Galileo created a telescope having 3 x magnification. Later on, he increased its magnification to 30 x. This telescope is called spyglass or terrestrial telescope.
    • By means of his telescope, Galileo discovered three of the four largest moons of Jupiter on January 7, 1610. At first, he called them ‘three fixed stars, totally invisible by their smallness’ but after three days, one of them vanished. After another three days, he observed the fourth moon. He called all of these moons Medicean stars. These moons are now named as Galilean satellites because of its discoverer.
    • The discovery of Jupiter’s moons was a revolution in astronomy because at the time it was believed that every object in space orbits around the earth.
    • In the middle of 1611, Galileo was able to figure out the periods of these moons accurately. Johannes Kepler could not believe it.
    • Like our moon, Venus also exhibits full sets of phases. This was first illustrated by Galileo in September 1610.
    • The astronomical observations of Galileo disproved the geocentric model of Ptolemy, which suggested planet earth as the center of solar system and all heavenly bodies circle around it.
    • He observed the planet Saturn along with its rings. However he thought the rings of Saturn were actually planets and remained confused.
    • In 1612, he observed the planet Neptune. But he could not figure out that it was a planet instead he believed it was one of the dim stars.
    • He is one of the first Europeans to witness sunspots. Before him, Kepler also spotted sunspots in 1607 but he confused it with transit of mercury.
    • Galileo described for the first time that because of the light occlusion from craters and lunar mountains, the moon experiences uneven waning.
    • In 1617, he witnessed the double star called Mizar in Ursa Major.
    • He spotted the Milky Way as a densely packed collection of stars that looked a lot like clouds from our planet.
    • He developed a method by means of which the apparent size of the star can be calculated without seeking help from a telescope.
    • He is the pioneer to figure out sound frequency.

    Galileo works provided the foundation for Newton’s laws of motion as well as special theory of relativity by Einstein. He concluded that there is no absolute motion or rest and that laws of physics are always the same.

    Learn now: Issac Newton Facts for Kids

    During his house arrest, Galileo produced one of the remarkable works on science; Two New Sciences. This was his final book published in 1638 and he gave account of his works that he did 40 years earlier on the strength of materials and kinematics. Albert Einstein also applauded this book. This work awarded Galileo the title of ‘Father of Modern Physics’.

    Galileo observing through telescope

    Galileo Galilei Facts about his Life

    • With the help of his theory of the tides, Galileo showed that Earth and other planets revolve around the static sun. Thus, he proved that the model developed by Nicolaus Copernicus in 1543 was true. Although he was right about the movement of earth around the sun, he could not figure out the cause of tides correctly. According to his theory, there should have been one high tide daily instead of two.
    • Galileo did not accept the idea of Johannes Kepler that moon was the real reason behind tides. Besides, the elliptical orbits of planets described by Kepler also did not appeal to Galileo.
    • At the time, the protestant leaders rejected the idea of heliocentrism (model of astronomy in which earth and other planets orbit the sun). They had a strong belief that earth is the center of the universe and all planets revolve around it (geocentrism). In 1609, Galileo supported heliocentrism based on his observations.
    • In 1613, the Grand Duchess Christina of Florence argued that heliocentrism was against the biblical texts. But Galileo replied that Bible was not a book on science but on morals and faiths.
    • Due to Galileo’s beliefs that earth moves around the sun (heliocentrism), Father Niccolo Lorini felt that he was going to reinterpret the Bible and thus Galileo was presented before Roman Inquisition to defend his views.
    • Due to his views on heliocentrism, Galileo became ‘vehemently suspect of heresy’ and he was kept house arrest for the rest of his life. It is thought while he was forced to change his beliefs and had to concede that all the planets revolve around the motionless earth; he spoke silently to say the following famous words:

    And yet it moves

    • By 1638, Galileo became blind due to insomnia and hernia.

    Galileo Galilei Death

    • At the age of 77, Galileo died on 8 January 1642.
    • Galileo was buried in Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence. It is the same church where his ancestor Galileo Bonaiuti was buried 200 years earlier.
    • Since Galileo was condemned by the Catholic Church, Pope Urban VIII did not allow him to bury at the main body of Basilica of Santa Croce.
    • In 1737, he was reburied at basilica’s main body and a monument was built in his honor. While doing this, one tooth and three fingers of Galileo were shed. Today, his right-hand’s middle finger is on display at the 11th century building called Museo Galileo in Florence.
  • Solar Eclipse for Kids | Reason, Facts and Types

    Solar Eclipse for Kids | Reason, Facts and Types

    When the Moon comes in between the Earth and the Sun, it blocks the sunlight and prevents it from reaching the earth’s surface. The moon either completely blocks the sun’s rays or allows some rays to pass through it. When the sun is completely covered by the moon such that no sunlight reaches the earth’s surface, it is known as total eclipse. Likewise, when the disc of the sun is only partially covered by the moon so that some of its rays manage to reach the earth’s surface, it is called partial or annular eclipse. Solar eclipse does not form as a result of any mystical reason, but it occurs through the natural movement of the moon.

    Reason of Solar Eclipse

    The size of the sun is very big as compare to the moon. The sun is about 400 times bigger than the moon. But the primary reason why solar eclipse occurs (when both are aligned perfectly in a straight line) is that the earth-sun distance is roughly 400 times greater than the earth-moon distance. In other words, the sun lies at almost 400 times farther apart from the earth than the moon. The farther the object will be, the smaller it appears. It is because of this reason that when the moon lines up perfectly with respect to the sun, it is big enough to block the sunlight.

    Types of Solar Eclipse

    Solar eclipse is categorized into the following four kinds:

    Total Eclipse

    It is formed when the moon covers the entire disc of sun and virtually no sunlight is allowed to pass through it. It means both heavenly bodies are lined up correctly in a straight line.

    Annular Eclipse

    It is formed as a result of relative sizes of the sun and the moon. When the sun and the moon line up correctly, the size of the sun appears slightly bigger than the moon. As a result of sun’s slightly bigger size, a brightly-lit ring is formed around the boundary of the moon.

    Hybrid Eclipse

    (As its name suggests) it is a kind of eclipse which is formed between the movements of annular eclipse and total eclipse. This kind of eclipse does not occur quite often. The reason why this eclipse is called hybrid is that as it occurs, the earth’s surface experiences both total as well as annular eclipses. Some of the regions may go through total while others undergo annular eclipses.

    Partial Eclipse

    Partial eclipse - Solar eclipse for kids

    It is formed when the sun and the moon does not align exactly in a straight line. For that reason, the sun is not completely covered by the moon. Since the sun’s surface is not entirely covered, it throws its light on the earth and so it becomes very difficult to witness such kind of eclipses. If the moon envelops the sun’s disc by more than 90 percent, only then the shadowy look of the sunlight is observed.

    Facts about Solar Eclipse

    Solar eclipse occurs only at the time of new moon

    • In 1706, total solar eclipse was observed for the very first time by means of a telescope in France.
    • The area on the earth’s surface which is completely dark as a result of moon blocking the sun is known as umbra region. In this region, no sunlight is witnessed at all. Therefore the total eclipse is occurred in this region.
    • The area on the earth’s surface where only partial eclipse occurs is known as penumbra region.
    • Total solar eclipse occurs in any given place on earth after every 18 months. But they come back to the same location after about 360 to 410 years which means they are very uncommon. The duration of total eclipse is only for about few minutes.
    • In June 20 1955, the total solar eclipse lasted for about 7 minutes and 8 seconds, which is the longest recorded in that century.
    • It is estimated that longest ever total solar eclipse (during 11 thousand-year history) will be recorded at a future date on July 16, 2186.

    During ancient times, solar eclipse was thought to be some kind of forewarning or a bad sign. Therefore, ancient people used to get terrified by it because the sunlight fades away during the day.

    Effect of Looking at the Solar Eclipse

    The sun emits extremely harmful radiations all the time and so staring directly at the sun (even with the help of binoculars or sun glasses) is very risky because it can injure eyesight and can even lead to blindness on a permanent basis. Likewise, if you gaze directly at the sun during solar eclipse, it will be equally dangerous for the eyes just like seeing it without solar eclipse. Watching the sun in a total solar eclipse (when the moon covers the sun completely behind it) is safe but since it lasts for only few minutes, it’s also not recommended.

  • Machu Picchu Facts For Kids | Old Peak Of South America

    Machu Picchu Facts For Kids | Old Peak Of South America

    Machu Picchu is a fortress and is one of the historical landmarks of South America. In Latin America, this site is one of those places that attract thousands of visitors every year from all over the world. It is also known as Machu Pikchu. The word Machu means ‘old’ and Pikchu means ‘Mountain’. So the word Machu Pikchu means ‘old peak’.

    A Quick Guide To Machu Picchu Facts For Kids

    Height above sea level: 2,430 meters

    Location: Cusco region, Urubamba

    Country: Peru

    Name of Empire who built it: Inca Empire

    Name of Inca Emperor Pachacuti (1438–1472)

    Basic Machu Picchu Facts For Kids

    Introduction

    1. It is the site of the Inca Empire that ruled in Peru from 13th century to 16th century.
    2. The Incas made this fortress in 1450.
    3. The height of Machu Picchu is 2,430 meters from sea level.
    4. It is found in the Cusco region of Urubamba River.
    5. The Sacred Valley of the Incas is located below this fortress.
    6. It is believed that this peak was made for an Inca Emperor named Pachacuti.

    Hiram Bingham

    1. A US explorer named Hiram Bingham discovered Machu Picchu on July 24, 1911.
    2. Bingham found this fortress with the help of local people. A boy named Pablito Alvarez was just 11 years old when he showed the way to Bingham toward Machu Picchu.
    3. Bingham described his personal experiences while exploring Machu Picchu fortress in various books which he had written.
    4. The name of the most famous book of Bingham is ‘Lost City of the Incas’.

    Construction

    1. Machu Picchu was built during the times of two emperors of Inca Empire. The names of these emperors are Tupac Inca Yupanqui and Pachacutec Inca Yupanqui.
    2. The mountain has been repaired for quite a number of times. Until 1976, almost 30 percent of the mountain was brought back to its original condition.
    3. The names of 3 main structures of Machu Picchu are ‘Room of the Three Windows’, ‘Temple of the Sun’ and Inti Watana.
    4. All of the three structures are found in the ‘Sacred District’ of this mountain. Sacred District is a special name given by archaeologists.

    More Machu Picchu Facts For Kids

    1. When the Spanish conquered Peru in 1572, they failed to notice Machu Picchu. The Spanish had destroyed most of the major sites except this citadel.
    2. Today it is believed that majority of its residents were killed because of smallpox.
    3. Cusco was the capital of Inca Empire and this fortress is situated at just 80 kilometers away.
    4. The site of Machu Picchu was announced by Peru as a ‘Historical Sanctuary’ in 1981. The total size of this site is just about 326 square kilometers.
    5. In 1983, it was declared the World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

    Did you really find these facts helpful? Is it what you’re looking for? Please comment and help us improving this article. Thanks for reading it!

  • Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids | Among First Discovered Gases

    Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids | Among First Discovered Gases

    Carbon dioxide is a gas at normal temperature and pressure. The chemical formula for carbon dioxide is CO2. It means it has 2 atoms of Oxygen and 1 atom of Carbon. It exists in the air as a trace gas which means its concentration is less than 1 percent in our atmosphere. It is also a very important fire extinguisher as well as an important ingredient for making soft drinks. So let’s explore more about it in carbon dioxide facts for kids.

    A Quick Guide To Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids

    Name of Discoverer: Joseph Black

    Chemical State: Gas

    Molecular Formula: CO2

    Density: 1.98 kg/m3

    Basic Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids

    Discovery

    1. A Flemish scientist of the 17th century named Jan Baptist van Helmont was the first chemist who discovered the presence of different gases in the air. He used the term ‘gas’ for the very first time.
    2. During the mid 18th century, a Scottish chemist named Joseph Black was the first scientist who discovered carbon dioxide gas. He named this gas ‘Fixed Air’.
    3. Carbon dioxide is among the first gases to be discovered.
    4. In 1835, a French person named Adrien-Jean-Pierre Thilorier was the first one who made solid form of this gas. Carbon dioxide in solid state is called ‘dry ice’. It is also known as cardice.

    Physical Properties

    1. It is soluble in water.
    2. It is a colorless gas.Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids
    3. It is an odorless gas in low concentrations. However, it has an acidic odor in high concentrations.
    4. As compare to air, carbon dioxide is a heavier gas.

    Forms of Carbon Dioxide

    1. When the temperature is below -78.5oC and at 1 atmospheric pressure, carbon dioxide gas is converted into a solid state called dry ice.
    2. At 1 atmospheric pressure, a solid carbon dioxide changes directly into a gaseous state at above -78.5oC. The process in which a solid substance changes directly into gas without becoming a liquid is called Sublimation.
    3. At atmospheric pressure of more than 5.1 atm, carbon dioxide gas is converted into a liquid state.
    4. At high pressure, carbon dioxide gas also exists in a different solid state called non-crystalline solid just like glass. It is a kind of silica glass and is known as Amorphous carbonia (a-CO2).
    5. There are 4 methods in which carbon dioxide is emitted as a by-product. These are fermentation, burning the fossil fuels, steam reforming in which hydrogen is produced and ammonia synthesis.
    6. The burning of those compounds that contain carbon, emits water and carbon dioxide.

    Uses

    1. Carbon dioxide is one of those chemical ingredients that are used to produce methanol and urea.
    2. It is mainly used as a food additive in order to improve the taste of the food.
    3. At high pressure, carbon dioxide can be dissolved in a liquid. This process of liquefying carbon dioxide is known as carbonation. It is also known as fizz.
    4. The liquid in which carbon dioxide is dissolved is known as carbonated water. It is also known as fizzy water or soda water. Fizzy water is formed when the pressure is reduced and carbon dioxide is allowed to escape into the air as bubbles.
    5. It is a very important ingredient in making soft drinks.
    6. In its solid state, carbon dioxide is used to keep grapes chilly in the manufacturing of wine. It is preferred over normal water ice because it does not produce extra water that may reduce the level of sugar from the wine juice called ‘Must’. The process of making wine is called vinification.
    7. Carbon dioxide is a fire extinguisher.

    More Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids

    1. Carbon dioxide is present in our atmosphere as a trace gas. Trace gases are those gases that constitute less than 1 percent of all the gases in the atmosphere.
    2. The exact percentage of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is about 0.04 percent.
    3. The waters of the ocean absorb almost one-third of carbon dioxide produced by us. This natural process of absorbing carbon dioxide by sea water is very important for making climate as feasible as possible for us.
    4. When the rate of intake of carbon dioxide by ocean waters increases, it results in the decrease of pH of these waters. This is known as Ocean Acidification.
    5. Within 24 hours, every person emits almost 2.3 pounds of carbon dioxide.

    Did you really find these carbon dioxide facts for kids helpful? Is it what you’re looking for? Please comment and help us improving this article. Thanks for reading it!

  • Pluto Facts For Kids | A Dwarf Planet

    Pluto Facts For Kids | A Dwarf Planet

    Pluto is the only planet that was discovered in the 20th century. Pluto was moved down to the status of a dwarf planet in 2006, which makes it even more interesting to study this planet. So let’s have a short but interesting journey of this mysterious dwarf planet in Pluto facts for kids.

    Discovery

    Clyde Tombaugh discovered Pluto in 1930. He was an American astronomer. Tombaugh was only 24 at the time of discovery.

    How Was Pluto Discovered

    Following the discoveries of Uranus and Neptune, at first Pluto was thought to be the third planet as other 6 planets had always attracted the eyes of keen observers for many years. These six planets were noticeable to the unaided eye which is why ancient people knew them. On the contrary, the existence of Pluto was previously based on the assumption that the circular path of Uranus was seemingly disturbed by another body that is quite far-off. However, this assumption was proved to be wrong because the size of Pluto is too small to cause any such disturbance. At the start of 20th century, an astronomer from USA named Percival Lowell built an observatory at Flagstaff, Arizona and set off to explore Pluto. But in 1916, he died without achieving any success. In 1929, a young astronomer named Tombaugh was signed up to this task and continued the search by means of a specially-built camera. At last Tombaugh discovered Pluto in February 18, 1930.

    Size

    The diameter of Pluto is more or less 2,284 kilometers. Moon (which is the only satellite of our planet) is bigger than Pluto. Pluto is about two-third the size of our Moon.

    Color

    Observations of this planet reveal that its color is somewhat red but unlike Mars which has a more reddish surface, it is only moderately red that shows the planet is not just made up of ice.

    Orbit

    Pluto requires 247.7 earth years to complete its orbit around the Sun.

    Location

    Pluto is located in the Kuiper Belt. Kuiper belt is found away from the last planet of our solar system; Neptune. This belt is made up of rock and ice formed of the fragments that were left behind after the solar system was formed.

    Distance

    Pluto lies at an average distance of 39.5 AU (Astronomical Unit) away from the Sun. One AU is equal to 150 million kilometers (which is the distance between the Earth and the Sun).

    Mass

    The mass of Pluto is about 1.2 × 1022 kg.

    Density

    The density of Pluto ranges from 1.92 g/cm3 to 2.06 g/cm3.

    Composition

    The core or the innermost part of Pluto is assumed to be made up of rocky material. The mantle layer wrapping it up is perhaps made up of thick water ice. The outermost part of Pluto is made up of methane, nitrogen and carbon monoxide in ice forms.

    Moons Of Pluto

    Pluto has 5 moons; Charon, Nix, Hydra, Kerberos and Styx. Discovered in 1978, Charon is by a long way the largest moon of Pluto. Its size is about half that of Pluto and orbits the planet at a distance of about 19,640 km.

    Atmosphere

    Pluto has a thin layer of atmosphere which was discovered in 1988. Scientists observed the atmosphere of Pluto when it passed a star and the light of this star slightly faded while it entered the planet and thus signaling the presence of atmosphere. When Pluto reached perihelion (a point from where Pluto lies at the minimum distance from the Sun) in 1989, many of its gases vaporized from the solid-icy state (a process known as sublimation) because it came closer to the Sun than usual. At aphelion (a point from where Pluto lies at the maximum distance from the Sun), it is impossible to examine its atmosphere because of the greatest distance from the Sun and thus lack of sunlight allows gases to solidify.

    Temperature

    A very small amount of sunshine reflected from the surface of Pluto is referred to as Albedo. The albedo of Pluto is 0.55 (which means the surface of Pluto reflects back 55 percent of sunlight) and Moon’s albedo is 0.1 (meaning 10 percent of sunlight is reflected back from its surface). Because we do not know much about albedo as well as Pluto’s atmosphere, it is very hard to determine the precise surface temperature of this planet. However, it is estimated that its temperature varies between 45 K and 60 K.

    Symbol

    The symbol used for Pluto is ♇. It is made up of two letters ‘P’ and ‘L’ that are merged into one letter. These two letters represent initials of the first two letters after the name of this planet (Pluto) as well as the initials of the name of the person (Percival Lowell) who initiated the project that led to the discovery of Pluto.

    Interesting Pluto Facts For Kids

    Pluto became a Dwarf planet on August 24, 2006 by International Astronomical Unit. It is no longer the 9th planet. Our Solar System now consists of only 8 planets.

    It is by far the biggest of all objects lying in the Kuiper belt.

    Pluto is the least studied planet in our solar system primarily because earth’s satellite has never been able to reach this planet.

    The unusual behavior of Pluto’s orbit at times becomes so big that it takes this planet nearer to the Sun rather than Neptune. Pluto will not come any closer to the Neptune’s orbit up to the year 2226.

    Charon is the biggest satellite of Pluto.

    Because the rotational period of Pluto is equal to the speed at which Charon orbits around it, the side of Pluto facing Charon is always the same.

    Pluto lies very far away so much so that it takes over 5 hours for sunlight to arrive at this planet though it travels at a speed of about 186,000 miles per second.

    The Sun rises in the west of Pluto and sets in the east.

    When Charon was not discovered yet, Pluto was believed to be the moon of Neptune that got away from its orbit for unknown reasons.

    More Pluto Facts For Kids

    The Sun appears like a very bright point from Pluto and looks a lot like a star. But the brightness of this point is so strong that a full Moon’s light is 100 times less intense than this point.

    Pluto is invisible to the naked eye.

    Pluto is not the ninth planet anymore. It is now a dwarf planet. Dwarf planets are smaller than Mercury (the smallest planet in our solar system).

    Hubble Space Telescope discovered two new satellites of Pluto in 2005.

    The point at which Pluto lies at the closest distance from the Sun is called perihelion. Pluto’s perihelion is about 29.7 AU. It was in 1989 that Pluto last reached its perihelion.

    The point at which Pluto lies at the farthest distance from the Sun is called aphelion. Pluto’s aphelion is about 49.5 AU.

    The surface temperature of this planet is freezing cold which makes carbon monoxide gas as well as nitrogen gas to exist in ice forms over Pluto.

    Now that, how did you find these Pluto facts for kids? Are they really helpful and is it what you’re looking for?

  • Uranus Facts for Kids | The Seventh Planet

    Uranus Facts for Kids | The Seventh Planet

    Uranus is among one of the two ice giants of our solar system. The other ice giant is Neptune. An ice giant is made up of carbon, sulfur, nitrogen and oxygen. The composition and mass of Uranus makes it very close to Neptune. Uranus is also one of the four giant planets. The other three are Neptune, Jupiter and Saturn. These four planets are also called gas giants or Jovian planets. Now let’s explore more about this planet in Uranus facts for kids.

    A Quick Guide to Uranus Facts for Kids

    Name of Discoverer: Sir William Herschel

    Date of Discovery: March 13, 1781

    Name

    Origin of the word ‘Uranus’: Name based on ‘sky god’ in Greek mythology

    Astronomer who suggested the name ‘Uranus’: Johann Elert Bode (German)

    Year in which ‘Uranus’ was accepted as official name: 1850

    Name given by Herschel: Georgian Sidus (which means George’s Star, as a mark of respect to King George III)

    Physical Features

    Primary constituents of atmosphere: Helium, Hydrogen and Methane

    Constituents of Internal Structure: Methane, Water and Ammonia (ices)

    Interior composition: Rocks and ice

    Number of Planetary Rings: 11

    Five largest Moons: Miranda, Ariel, Umbriel, Oberon and Titania

    Natural Satellites (Moons) of Uranus: 27

    Density: 1.285 g/cm3

    Distance from the Sun: 19.2 A.U. (one Astronomical Unit equals 150 million kilometers)

    Shape of Orbit: Elliptical

    Period of one revolution around the Sun: 84 Earth years

    Period of one rotation on its own axis: 17 hr 14 min (Earth hours)

    Lowest atmospheric temperature: 52 K (−366 °F)

    Comparison with Earth

    Number of Earths to be fitted inside Uranus: Over 60 Earths

    Mass of Uranus as compared to Earth: 14.5 times bigger

    Diameter of Uranus as compared to Earth: 4 times bigger

    Unique Uranus Facts for Kids

    1. Uranus is the smallest of all gas giants.
    2. It ranks at the second position among the lightest planets of our solar system. Saturn being the first.
    3. It ranks at the third position among the biggest planets of solar system. The biggest planet is Jupiter and the second biggest is Saturn.
    4. This planet ranks third among the planets having largest radii.
    5. In terms of mass, Uranus holds fourth position among all other planets.
    6. It ranks seventh from the sun.
    7. After olden days, Uranus is considered to be the first planet which is discovered by means of a telescope.

     

    Discovery

    1. A Greek astronomer named Hipparchus is probably the first one to witness Uranus in about 128 B.C. But at the time, he considered it as a star rather than planet.
    2. The earliest and most reliable discovery of Uranus was conducted in December 1690 by an English astronomer named John Flamsteed. He mixed up this planet with a star and spotted it for about six times.
    3. In 1548, Galileo spotted Uranus but he thought perhaps it was a star. The movement of this planet is actually very slow which is why ancient astronomers confuse it with a star.
    4. Until 1781, astronomers got a view of this planet about 21 times. However, not a single soul thought it was a planet.
    5. Following its discovery, Uranus was known in England by the name of Georgian Sidus. This name was given by its discoverer Herschel and its name wasn’t changed until 70 years later.

    William Herschel

    1. At the start, Herschel thought Uranus was a comet rather than a planet.
    2. William Herschel was not an astronomer. In truth, he was a musician but his interest began looking at heavenly bodies when in 1773 he purchased his very first telescope.

    3. On discovery of Uranus, the King of Great Britain (George III) fixed a yearly salary of £200 for Herschel.
    4. William Herschel died at the age of 84. Uranus travels around the sun and completes one revolution in 84 years too. It means when Herschel passed away, this planet came back to the exactly same position where it was when he was born.

    General Features

    Uranus is composed of three distinct layers namely:

    • The outer atmosphere acts like a covering is made up of gases like Helium and Hydrogen
    • The mantle is mainly composed of ices (icy material means a liquid consisting of ammonia, water and the like)
    • The core is made up of hard rock containing iron and silicates.
    1. The chemical element called Uranium was named after Uranus possibly because it was discovered eight years later than the planet’s discovery.
    2. The color of this planet looks like blue with a little green shade as well. It is possibly due to the presence of methane in the atmosphere of Uranus.
    3. The name of the first and the last spacecraft that went to Uranus was Voyager 2. This spacecraft visited the planet back in 1986.
    4. The orbit of this planet lies between those of Neptune (its neighbor-planet) and Saturn.
    5. A Swedish-speaking physicist and astronomer named Anders Johan Lexell was the first person to calculate the orbit of Uranus. He reckoned Uranus as a planet which was otherwise thought to be a comet.
    6. The lowest atmospheric temperature on Uranus is 49 K, which is by far the most freezing temperature ever recorded on any planet.
    7. As compare to the distance of the Earth from the Sun, Uranus lies about 19 times more far-off from the sun.
    8. A year on Uranus is about 84 times more than earth’s year (365 days).
    9. A day on Uranus lasts only for 17 hours.
    10. In France, this planet was known by the name of Herschel. This name was assigned by a French astronomer called Joseph-Jérôme Lefrançais de Lalande.
    11. Miranda is the smallest moon. It is also the innermost of the five major natural satellites of Uranus. Miranda is named after one of the Shakespearean characters in a drama titled ‘The Tempest’.
    12. Titania is the largest moon. Its name was chosen by Herschel’s son named John Herschel and it is based on one of the characters of Shakespeare’s play known as ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’.

    Did you really find these Uranus facts for kids good enough? Is it what you’re looking for? Please comment and help us improving this article. Thanks for reading it.

  • Mercury Facts for Kids | Rare Facts about Planet Mercury

    Mercury Facts for Kids | Rare Facts about Planet Mercury

    Mercury is the closest to the sun, and the first planet in our solar system; however it is not that near as you might think. There are approximately 58 million kilometers between it and the sun. Being closest to the sun, its surface reflects sunlight, just like our moon. Without wasting time, let’s move on to read the most amazing mercury facts for kids.

    Mercury Facts For Kids

    Being closest to the sun, the planet is constantly bombarded with sunlight, radiation and UV rays, and unless aliens can withstand a scorching heat of 400 degrees Celsius, it’s fairly certain, there is no life on the planet. Its surface is covered with craters and is completely dry. Interestingly, Mercury is not the hottest planet of them all. No, Venus beats Mercury in the hotness department, even though it is much further away from the sun.

    Ice on Mercury:

    Wai-what?! Ice? Yes, you read right. Scientists believe that even though, it has the sun as it’s neighbor, Mercury actually might have ice in it. It is believed that some regions of Mercury were never heated by the sun—This section is mainly thought to be around it’s pole which have eternally been in shadow from the Sun’s heat. Mercury is one unique planet, right?

    First Mugshot:

    Now, this bad boy, had his first picture taken in 1974-1965. NASA’s spacecraft, The Mariner 10, was close enough to the planet to take some clear pictures.

    You can see Mercury in the sky:

    Even though mercury is 77 million km away from the earth, you can actually view it without a telescope. However, this does not mean you can see the planet just by looking up in the sky. Planets, unlike stars, do not shine. Mercury can be seen near the western horizon at sunrise or sunset. Surprisingly, Mercury is just one of the 5 planets that can be viewed without any specialized equipment. Other planets include: Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn.

    If there was life on Mercury, people on it would be much younger:

    A day is equal to one full rotation of a particular planet. Now, scientists found that one full day on Mercury are equal to 58 days on Earth!

    NASA’s latest mission to Mercury

    NASA’s latest mission to Mercury is code named the Messenger.  The Messenger spacecraft entered Mercury’s orbit back in March 2011. It regularly photographs pictures of the surface and sends them to NASA Headquarters. Mercury’s full pictures weren’t seen before 2011, the first mission to Mercury only captured half of the planet, because it ran out of fuel.

    Mercury Crossing the sun

    Once in every ten or fifteen years, Mercury crosses the sun.  At this special point its orbit comes between the Sun and the Earth.  This event known as a transit and can be observed in the open sky; however, precautions must be taken.  When watching any event near the Sun, a proper lens filter must be used to protect the sight from harmful rays.  You’ll see Mercury as a small, black dot passing the sun.  You must never try to look directly at the Sun without a filter.

    That is a lot of useful information about Mercury. But, knowledge is a gift that grows more after sharing. Do tell these facts to others.

  • Planet Facts for Kids: Stories About The Big Blue Marble And Other Planets

    Planet Facts for Kids: Stories About The Big Blue Marble And Other Planets

    Even in ancient times, humans have always been itching to know the mysteries of the sky and what lies beyond. Gradually, many of the secrets of our galaxy were revealed, but our interest in the Universe hasn’t stopped there. We wanted to explore the Universe for ourselves, to conquer our galaxy. We now know that there are eight (or 9, opinions are still divergent) planets in the solar system, one of them being the Earth, The Big Blue Marble or, as we like to call it, our home. All these planets are astounding in their own unique way and give us many things to discover and learn. Here are the most intriguing Planet Facts for Kids: 

    Planet Facts For Kids

    1. What is the solar system?

    The solar system is an entity that has in its vicinity eight planets (including ours), gravitating around the Sun (which gave the solar system its name) and asteroids, moons or satellites, comets, dust, gas, dwarf planets and others.
    2. Is Pluto a planet?

    The answer is yes and no. Until 2006 Pluto was considered to be the ninth planet of our galaxy, but since then it has been considered to be a dwarf planet. The widely accepted number of planets of the solar system is eight.

    3. Which is now the smallest planet in the solar system?

    Mercury is not only the closest planet to the sun, but also the smallest planet in our solar system. It has a diameter of 4 878 km.

    4. Earth’s sister planet

    The most similar planet to Earth in size, chemical structure and density is Venus, which is also the hottest among all the known planets, due to its proximity to the Sun.

    5. What is the age of Earth?

    The age of our planet is believed to be approximately 4.6 billion years old.

    6. What is the shape of our planet?

    Contrary to the common belief, the Earth is not perfectly spherical in shape. The correct name of its shape is “oblate spheroid”, which means that our planet has an equatorial bulge.

    7. Big Blue Marble: maybe the most unique planet of all

    Although our planet is not distinguished though size, temperature, number of satellites or other extremes, it is a very special one. Earth is the only planet in the solar system with liquid water on its surface which is why life exists on our planet.

    8. Tallest volcano in the solar system

    The tallest volcano in the solar system is located on Mars. Named Olympus Mons, its height is three times greater than that of Mount Everest.

    9. Which is the largest planet of our system?

    The largest planet of our system is Jupiter, which has a diameter of 139 822 km. It is believed that almost 1,300 Earths would fit inside this gigantic planet. It also has the biggest satellite in the solar system, Ganymede, which is larger than Mercury.

    210. Floatable planet

    The planet Saturn is less dense than water, which means it can float on it.

    11. Which is the fastest rotating planet?

    That would be Jupiter. Despite the fact that it’s the largest and most dense planet of our solar system, Jupiter is also the one that spins the fastest.  In about ten hours, Jupiter does a full rotation.

    Learn more: Jupiter Facts

    12. Which is the coldest planet of our solar system?

    Uranus is the coldest of all planets. The lowest temperature ever recorded on Uranus is -224 C.

    13. Other dwarf planets

    Pluto is not the only dwarf planet in our solar system. Joining it are Ceres, Haumea, Makemake and Eris.

    1. The Great Red Spot

    Jupiter is not only known for its size or number of satellites, but also for its unique feature: The Great Red Spot, which is a huge storm spotted over 300 years ago. Sometimes it’s even three times bigger than the Earth.

    15. The hexagon of Saturn

    Everybody knows about the rings of Saturn, but few people know about its hexagon, a shape which circles Saturn’s north pole. This hexagon so big that four Earths would fit inside it. Although several theories exist, its origin is still a mystery.

     16. The extreme winds of Neptune

    Winds travel on Neptune with speeds of more than 1500 mph. However, it is still unclear what drives these winds to go at such a fast pace because this planet is situated very far from the sun and has a very weak internal heat to boost such powerful winds.<!–

  • Space Facts For Kids | Untold Facts About Space

    Space Facts For Kids | Untold Facts About Space

    ­­­You know what! You cannot count how many galaxies are there in our solar system because there are billions and billions of them. Well, as a matter of fact, our universe and the space around us are full of mysteries that are yet to be unfolded. Hence finding about interesting space facts for kids is a journey that may never end. So let’s enjoy some of the fascinating space facts for kids.

    Space Facts For Kids

    If any human falls down inside the Black Hole, it will turn him into a very extended and slim rope. This method is known as “spaghettification”.

    If you pass urine inside a spacecraft and then discard it in space, the freezing temperature of space will turn it into solid golden crystals.

    There are few astronauts that had inhaled the dust of Moon and afterwards caught up in an unusual kind of disease known as ‘lunar lung’.

    Do you know what a Black Hole is? Well, it is still a mystery because whatever makes a way into it, never comes out. In truth, light cannot break out from the trap of Black Hole. It is all because the force of gravity inside the Black Hole is incredibly powerful.

    Due to lack of gravity in space, the astronauts have to fasten their both thighs and feet with the restroom seats when they need to go to toilet.

    Another one of the weird space facts for kids is that the physical appearance of the moons of Mars planet bears a great resemblance to potato.

    One of the mind-blowing space facts for kids is that the farthest Black Hole lies at almost thirteen billion light years from Earth. Unimaginable distance! Of course there may be any other lying even further than this one, but so far scientists believe this is the remotest. If you compare the weight of this Black Hole with the Sun, the Sun turns out to be three billion times much lighter than this Black Hole.

    The boom of Crab Nebula produced certain rubble which is on its way within our Universe and moving at a staggering speed of 1,100 miles in a second.

    The mass of the Sun is driving away and it is throwing almost 2.2 billion pounds (lbs) of its weight in every second.

    You know how big is your solar system? Well, if you seek to find out the border line of our Solar System on a spacecraft moving at an amazing speed of more than 35,000 miles (its normal for a spacecraft) in every hour, you’ll probably have to wait for about 40,000 years before you reach the boundary.

    There are few rocks in our planet that may seem unusual because they have actually toppled from the space and are the small bits of another beautiful planet, Mars.

    There are countless stars in our solar system just like the sand grains on Earth. Out of all these, there is a star named as Aldebaran. One of the astonishing space facts for kids is that NASA launched its mission to this star in 1972 and sent a Pioneer spacecraft. But the amazing thing is that the last time that spacecraft observed was in 2003 and it has to travel for about two million years (2,000,000) before it reaches Aldebaran.

    You know how many days are there in a year in Mercury? Just 88 days, which means you’ll survive for more than three centuries if you start living in Mercury. More life means more birthday parties!

    The Universe is too big to know each and every thing in detail and almost 96% of its total mass is still unknown to the scientists. This is known as dark matter because you cannot see anything through it. Isn’t it one of the truly amazing space facts for kids?

    The heart of our galaxy is called Milky Way and our solar system revolves around it at a speed of 170 miles in a second.

    The USSR launched a satellite in space (named as ‘Sputnik 2’) back in 1957. On this satellite they also sent a homeless dog (known as Laika). It was indeed the first animal ever to step into space but since satellite couldn’t come back to Earth, Laika passed away.

    Did you find these space facts for kids interesting enough to read? Yes, then don’t just break off here and resume your journey into space.

    More Fascinating Space Facts For Kids

    As you know Earth revolves around the Sun in a specific orbit or path. The span or distance of this path is almost twenty five times smaller than the total size of Alpha Herculis (a star).

    Every year the average amount of meteoric debris that falls on our planet is about 88 million lbs.

    Within 24 hours, our planet covers a distance of about 1.5 million miles while orbiting the Sun.

    Lack of gravitational force in space results in a great deal of problems for the astronauts like those astronauts that spend lion’s share of their lifetime in space can result in weak bones (due to zero mass of bones in space) and sometimes muscle wasting issues. That is why such astronauts remain off-color for quite a number of years following their arrival back to Earth.

    Moon reflects the light from the Sun and passes it on to our planet within just 1.25 seconds.

    We have a 24-hour day, right? But the biggest planet of our solar system, Jupiter, has only ten hours in a day.

    One of the amazing space facts for kids and that inspires me too is the fact that you can actually witness ISS (International Space Station) moving around our planet quite easily. What’s more, you can observe it in the twilight and without using any telescope or binoculars.

    What do you understand by one light year? A light year is basically a distance that light covers in a year.

    By 2030, NASA is planning to create a small city on the surface of Moon.

    There is a unique and mysterious signal that often reaches earth from the space. This signal is called ‘Wow’ and ever since it was received back in 1977, no other signal has yet been picked up. However, it is likely to be any sign of any life up there.

    Astronauts also wash their hairs but not with traditional shampoo. They use specialized shampoo that does not require them to rinse out with water.

    If you shed tears in space, it will not fall down rather they remain in your eyes and as you weep more and more, the bubble of water will become bigger and bigger until turns into a massive droplet.

    The speed at which Moon is getting away from our planet is almost four centimeters per year.

    Neptune is the only planet that you cannot witness through naked eyes. Scientists identified this planet through arithmetical calculations and observations.

    Unlike Earth, Jupiter has no season. The planet has to lean in order to have different seasons.

    Sedan is the name of an asteroid that share some features of planet as well. That’s why it is known as planetoid. One of the amazing space facts for kids is that one year of Sedna is equivalent to our 10,500 years. That means, ever since Ice Age, the year on Sedna hasn’t changed yet.

    Some scientists have witnessed hole inside our Universe which may be indicative of another similar universe. Wow! Just imagine!

    Normally in one galaxy, one hundred billion stars exist.

    The size of the Moon equals to that of the core of our planet.

    The size of the Sun is so huge as compare to our planet that almost 103,000,000 Earths woul easily fix inside it.

    Are these space facts for kids really amazing to you? If yes, then which one inspires you most?

    space fact for kids
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  • Solar System Facts For Kids | Hidden Facts About Solar System

    Solar System Facts For Kids | Hidden Facts About Solar System

    We have collected some of the amazing solar system facts for kids. So let’s begin our journey by the fact that the center point of our solar system is the Sun while eight planets orbit the Sun on a plane called as Ecliptic. Besides there are few dwarf planets, 4 ring systems, comets amounting to trillions in numbers and millions of asteroids. All the planets have their natural satellites called Moons. The boundary of our solar system is believed to have been the Pluto’s most exterior orbit. It was long believed that Pluto is a planet but not anymore since now we know that it is a Dwarf Planet. That’s why there are eight planets instead of nine. Hence we’ll try to unravel true and hidden realities in the solar system facts for kids.

    Most Appealing Solar System Facts For Kids

    1. No planet in our solar system glows by itself but it reflects light from the Sun.
    2. The largest planet of our solar system is Jupiter.
    3. Gas giants are planets that are made up of gases.
    4. As from the Sun, Jupiter is the closest gas giant in the entire solar system.
    5. Our solar system has eight planets. It is perhaps a new addition for some readers in this solar system facts for kids.
    6. Every planet has one or few moons that orbits around it but Venus and Mercury have no moon.
    7. Our solar system has one hundred and sixty five moons or natural satellites.
    8. The term Planet comes from the Latin word Planeta, which means the wanderer.
    9. In olden times, people spotted only five planets namely Mercury, Saturn, Jupiter, Mars and Venus.
    10. The solar system came into being at around 4.56 billion years before.
    11. If any celestial body is spherical in shape, orbiting around the Sun and with the help of great pull of gravity, it has cleaned up its area from rubble; it means that thing can be called as a planet. All the three prerequisites are indispensable for a planet.
    12. If a celestial body is spherical and circle around the Sun but without so much gravitational power is known as Dwarf Planet.
    13. Our solar system has three Dwarf Planets namely Pluto, Eris and Ceres.
    14. There are almost one million asteroids in our solar system.
    15. Sun is present at the heart of our solar system.
    16. One of the interesting solar system facts for kids is that almost 99 percent of the solar system’s mass is stored within the Sun.
    17. The Sun radiates energy with the help of nuclear fusion reaction and the temperature at this point is almost 15.7 million K.
    18. We can view the exterior atmosphere of the Sun (Corona) only during solar eclipse.
    19. A coronagraph is a telescope built to view the Corona.
    20. The lifecycle of the Sun is about ten billion years.
    21. Almost 70 percent of the Earth is protected by oceans.
    22. Of all the planets in our solar system, our Earth is the unique planet to have correct atmospheric pressure to sustain water on its surface.

    Did you know these solar system facts for kids before? Well, if they are interesting enough, do not just stop here.

    More Solar System Facts For Kids

    • Those planets that resemble Jupiter are known as Jovian planets.
    • The names of Jovian planets are Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Jupiter.
    • The other name of Jovian planets is Gas Giants.
    • The big icy satellite of Neptune (known as Triton) is very much similar to Pluto.
    • The biggest asteroid of our solar system is called Ceres (Dwarf Planet).
    • Those planets that are similar to the Earth are known as Terrestrial planets.
    • The surface of the Moon reveals that planets may have suffered heavy bombing ever since the formation of the solar system.
    • There was heavy bombing on the Moon during 4.2 to 3.8 billion years before. This period is now referred to as Late Heavy Bombardment.
    • There are four primary satellites of Jupiter. They are also referred to as Galilean Satellites after their exploration by Galileo in 1610.
    • The size of one of the Galilean Satellites (known as ‘Io’) is almost equal to the Moon (the satellite of Earth). Do you find these solar system facts for kids interesting?
    • The biggest satellite of our solar system is called Ganymede (Satellite of Jupiter). It is bigger than the size of Mercury.
    • There is no satellite in the solar system that has substantial atmosphere except Titan (satellite of Saturn).
    • Ceres is the only planet (Dwarf Planet) that has no satellite.
    • The rotation periods of Pluto and its satellite, Charon, is exactly alike. As a result, the face of planet fronting its satellite and the face of satellite fronting its planet remains same at all times.
    • There are significant magnetic fields in all the Jovian planets.
    • There is no magnetic field on Venus as well as on the satellite of Earth (the Moon).
    • Our solar system and the Sun lie at about 8.5 kpc from the galactic center of Milky Way.
    • The name of the star which is closest to our solar system is “Proxima Centauri”. Are you aware of these solar system facts for kids?
    • The most gleaming star in our solar system is known as Sirius.
    • Pluto is the smallest and the farthest planet from the Sun.
    • The size of the Sun is very big as compare to our planet such that it can absorb 1.3 million Earths.

    The distance of the Sun from our planet is so great that if you drive a car on a main road at optimum speed, it’ll take you one hundred and fifty years to arrive at the Sun. Wow! What long drive!

    • The galaxy in which our solar system exists is called Milky Way.
    • Comets and Asteroids are the tiniest celestial bodies in our solar system.
    • There is a Great Red Spot on Jupiter and its size is almost 3 times the size of our planet.
    • The spinning speed of Jupiter is fastest among all the planets as within every ten Earth Hours, the planet revolves.
    • With the help of great gravitational pull, the massive cloud full of dirt and gases in space begins to fuse and this huge mass then starts rotating. The miniature objects develop into planets while others turn into moons (natural satellites). That’s how our solar system was formed.
    • Once in a while, Comets penetrate our solar system. Isn’t it one of the amazing solar system facts for kids?
    • Even though Jupiter is the largest planet but it is so small as compare to the Sun that the Sun can take in almost 1,000 Jupiters in it. Isn’t it one of the rarely known solar system facts for kids?
    • The Chinese were the first people to document the happening of solar eclipse way back 4,300 years before.
    • Around 2,265 years before, Aristarchus suggested that the center point of solar system is the Sun.
    • It was long thought that our planet is the center of solar system (for as long as 1,400 years).
    • In 1781, William Herschel explores the 7th planet, Uranus.
    • The maximum temperature of any planet is of Mercury which ranges up to 1112oF (Earth’s maximum temperature is 300oF).
    • Mercury holds hundreds of craters and interestingly the names of few are Shakespeare, Beethoven and Mark Twain, Sibelius, Dickens.
    • Venus is the most burning planet of our solar system.
    • Around 3,000 years before the Greeks thought that our planet was a horizontal disc.

    Do you really like these solar system facts for kids or not? If yes, then please comment on which is the most interesting fact in this solar system facts for kids?

  • Animal Facts For Kids – Fun and Amazing Facts about Animals

    Animal Facts For Kids – Fun and Amazing Facts about Animals

    Here we have gathered some of the most amazing and unknown animal facts for kids which you and your kids are definitely going to enjoy. So read on these amazing animal facts for kids and share them with your family and friends.

    Animal Facts for Kids

    • You know why a glass frog is known as such? It’s because the entire body structure of the animal is crystal clear such that you can even see its heart beat, abdomen and blood vessels inside.
    • Do you know how many kinds of snails are there in our planet? Well, over seventy thousand different kinds of snails and slugs. Indeed you don’t want them to arrange a get-together function. Do you?
    • Can you survive without having meal for even 2 days? No? But there is an animal that can live for about one year without having anything into its stomach. Yes, that’s scorpion.

    More Fun Facts about Animals for Kids

    • You know spider is unable to chew up anything. So what do these creatures do with the insects and flies? Well, it infuses a lethal chemical into their bodies thereby the chemical liquefies the inner substance of the flies. After that, it draws out the juice.
    • Spiders often save the insects or flies for their mealtime in their net.
    • During the growing stages of a cockroach, it builds up a spanking new skin over its body which is initially white. But due to the interaction with atmosphere, it turns itself into shady.
    • There is a special type of hedgehog (Madagascar) named as banded tenrec which makes itself off-color simply by consuming surplus amount of insects.
    • Sharks are capable to eat even the hardest materials as well like pieces of cars or vessels.
    • Sharks can sense the flavor of blood from almost 1 kilometer.
    • The sharks urinate through the skin since they lack urinary tract.
    • The rats chew up consistently because if it doesn’t do that, the lower part of its teeth will get so big that it will touch the uppermost section of its mouth.
    • If you throw a rat from even a 5-storey structure, nothing happens to it except that it will sprint afterwards.
    • Once there had been scorpions of enormous sizes (probably during the time of dinosaurs) that were even bigger than dogs with measuring three feet in length.
    • You’d probably have heard about the London parks like they are very clean. Really? But do you know about how much urine of dogs sneaks into these parks in one year? Well, it’s 4.5 million liters.
    • Up till now we know that cockroaches have 3,500 species. There is perhaps more than this that are undiscovered yet.
    • Cockroach feels flavor with the help of its feet.
    • If you want to do away with mosquitoes, just take some garlic.
    • If you sever a planarian worm into two segments, it will again develop into a complete worm. It also happens when you cut it and split these two segments that both of them may re-join again but from the wrong end.
    • Since Geckos do not have eyelids so in order to buff up the eyeballs, they have to lick them.
    • As compare to its body size (11 inches), the eyes of the vampire squid are one inch which is so big that you can imagine if you had an eyeball equal to the bats of table tennis!
    • The guard termites often blast themselves to safeguard their mound (nest) from enemies.
    • The tentacles of an octopus cover its mouth completely so when it tries to eat anything, the animal rolls inside out.
    • You know that most lethal kind of snake is carpet viper that has taken lives of maximum number of humans.
    • Copepods (little crustaceans) have only one eye.
    • In each year, almost 20,000 road accidents in Australia happen due to Kangaroos.

    I hope it was fun reading these animal facts for kids. For more educative, interesting and informative animal facts for kids visit  Animals Time.

  • Jupiter Facts For Kids | Top 20 Amazing Facts

    Jupiter Facts For Kids | Top 20 Amazing Facts

    Being massive, Jupiter stands as the largest planet in the solar system. It is also the fifth planet from the sun. The planet Jupiter is classified as a Gas Giant together with other similar planets including Neptune, Uranus, and Saturn. These four planets are combined to call Jovian planets. The planet was discovered in the prehistoric times but the discoverer is yet to be known. Jupiter is predominantly composed of hydrogen with some portion of helium. It does not have a real solid surface. Robotic spacecraft has explored the Jupiter on number of occasions. It is believed to be the fastest spinning planet in our solar system in that the planet only takes 10 hours to complete a full rotation on its axis. Be ready for the most amazing Jupiter facts for kids including Jupiter’s mass, atmosphere, temperature, moons, gravity, and characteristics.

    Jupiter Facts For Kids

    The gigantic Jupiter is believed to give out more energy than it receives from the sun. You might be wondering as to where the extra energy comes from! Actually, Jupiter is capable of generating its own heat that produces from within the planet as a result of gravitational force, which is why you can classify Jupiter as a star. According to scientists, the earthlings should be thankful to Jupiter for its strong gravity seizes several incoming asteroids and comets that would otherwise have crashed into earth. We can say that there would possibly be no life on earth without the planet Jupiter.

    1. The Jupiter’s clouds are no more than 50 km in thickness.
    2. One of the most fascinating features of Jupiter is its Great Red Spot which seem to exist for almost 350 years. This spot is deemed to be shrinking.
    3. Jupiter has planetary rings which are fairly dimmer as compared to that of Saturn’s.
    4. The planet has the strongest magnetic field among all planets which is why compasses believe to work on Jupiter.
    5. Jupiter has total 63 moons; all of them are less than 10 km in diameter.
    6. The spacecraft (from earth) has visited Jupiter 7 times.
    7. After Venus and Moon, Jupiter is by far the brightest planet in the solar system.
    8. The Jupiter can hold more than 1,300 earths in it.
    9. The Voyager I observed at least eight active volcanoes on I0 and plumes spreading up to 250 km above the surface.

    Features of Jupiter

    • The mass of the Jupiter is 1,898.6 × 1024 kg
    • Jupiter has a volume of 143,128 × 1010 km3
    • The equatorial radius of a Jupiter is calculated as 71,492 km
    • The polar radius of this planet is 66,854 km
    • The volumetric mean radius is 69,911 km
    • The ellipticity is calculated as 0.06487
    • Jupiter has a mean density of 1,326 kg/m3
    • It has a gravity of 24.79 m/s2
    • The acceleration of Jupiter is 23.12 m/s2
    • It has an escape velocity of 59.5 km/s
    • The visual magnitude of Jupiter is minus 9.40 V
    • There are total 67 satellites
    • The black-body temperature of this planet is 110.0 K

    Orbital Parameters of Jupiter

    • The semimajor axis of Jupiter is 778.57 × 106
    • There are 4,332.589 days in a sidereal orbit period
    • There are 4,330.595 days in a sidereal tropical orbit period
    • There are 398.88 days in a synodic period
    • The maximum orbital velocity is calculated as 13.72 km/s
    • The minimum orbital velocity is calculated as 12.44 km/s
    • It has a mean orbital velocity of 13.07 km/s
    • The orbit eccentricity is 0.0489
    • There are 9.9250 hours in a sidereal rotation
    • There are 9.9259 hours in a single day

    Observational Parameters of Jupiter

    • The discoverer of Jupiter is yet to be known; however, it was discovered since prehistoric times
    • It has a minimum distance of 588.5 × 106 from the earth
    • It has a maximum distance of 968.1 × 106 from the earth
    • The maximum apparent diameter of Jupiter from the earth is 50.1 seconds of arc
    • The minimum apparent diameter of Jupiter from the earth is 29.8 seconds of arc

    Jovian Atmosphere of Jupiter

    • The surface temperature of Jupiter is 1000 bars
    • The wind speeds is up to 150 m/s
    • It has a scale height of 27 km
    • The mean molecular weight of this planet is 2.22 g/mole
  • Saturn Facts For Kids | Interesting Facts about Saturn For Kids

    Saturn Facts For Kids | Interesting Facts about Saturn For Kids

    Now is the right time to enjoy some of the most important saturn facts for kids. Saturn is the second largest planet and deemed to be the god of agriculture in Roman mythology. It is because of this planet that the English word ‘Saturday’ was created. Thanks to the Galileo who first observed Saturn with his telescope in 1610 though he was confused by its odd appearance. Saturn seems like a flat object in space when viewed through the telescope. There are bands in Saturn which are more noticeable in Jupiter. When you view Saturn through a Hubble Space Telescope, you see a rare storm that seems like arrowhead-shaped feature close to the planet’s equator.

    There is a warmer air that produces this storm. The east-west extent of this storm is equal to the earth’s diameter (about 7,900 miles). When viewed from far apart, Saturn appears to have continuous rings that are composed of several tiny independent particles. The size of these particles ranges from few centimeters to several meters. The Saturn’s rings are extremely thin with the thickness of only half kilometer.         The rings are 250,000 km in diameter. They are largely composed of water ice and few hints of icy coatings and rocky particles. Scientists are unaware of the origin of these rings. Saturn has a substantial magnetic field. You can view Saturn in the nighttime sky with an unaided eye. The Saturn is not as bright as the Jupiter is, but it can be seen as a shining star in the sky.

    Saturn Facts For Kids

    • The mass of the Saturn is calculated at 568.46 × 1024
    • The volume of this planet is 82,713 × 1010
    • The polar radius is 54,364 km
    • The equatorial radius of Saturn is 60,268 km
    • Saturn has a volumetric mean radius of 58,232 km
    • It has a mean density of 687 kg/m3
    • The gravity of this planet is 10.44 m/s2
    • The acceleration of the Saturn is 8.96 m/s2
    • It has an escape velocity of about 35.5 km/s
    • The visual geometric albedo is 0.47
    • The visual magnitude is minus 8.88
    • The black-body temperature of the planet Saturn is 81.1 K
    • There are 62 natural satellites of Saturn

    What is the Largest Moon of Saturn?

    Titan is the largest moon of Saturn which has numerous layers of haze. The surface pressure of titan is 1.6 times to that of Earth. The surface temperature is extremely cold precisely -180 degrees Celsius. It is highly opaque largely due to thick that seems to be an effect of sunlight relating with hydrocarbons. The titan clouds are made up of methane drops and liquid nitrogen with the speculation of being embedded with oceans and lakes too.

    Apart from the titan, other Saturn moons have extremely cold surface and the ice is as stiff as craters from meteor impacts. The average density of these moons is 1.0 – 1.5 g/cc which indicates as to how icy the surface is though they might have few rocky constituents.

    Orbital Parameters | Saturn Facts For Kids

    • The semimajor axis of Saturn is 1,433.53 × 106
    • There are 10,759.22 days in a sidereal orbit period of Saturn
    • There are 10,746.94 days in a tropical orbit period
    • The mean orbital velocity is 9.69 km/s
    • The maximum orbital velocity is 10.18 km/s
    • The minimum orbital velocity of Saturn is 9.09 km/s
    • The orbit inclination of this planet is 2.485 degrees
    • The orbit eccentricity is 0.0565
    • There are 10.656 hours in a single day

    Observational Parameters | Saturn Facts For Kids

    • The discoverer of Saturn is yet to be known as it was discovered in the prehistoric times
    • The minimum distance of Saturn from the Earth is 1195.5 × 106
    • The maximum distance of Saturn from the Earth is 1658.5 × 106
    • The maximum apparent diameter from the Earth is 20.1 seconds of arc
    • The minimum apparent diameter from the Earth is 14.5 seconds of arc

    Saturnian Atmosphere

    • It has a surface pressure of 1000 bars
    • The temperature at 1 bar equals to 134 K
    • The speed of winds is up to 400 m/s
    • Saturn has a scale height of 59.5
    • The mean molecular weight is 2.07 g/mole

    The Small Moons of Saturn

    • Prometheus
    • Pandora
    • Epimetheus
    • Janus
    • Calypso
    • Helene
    • Hyperion
    • Mimas
    • Enceladus
    • Tethys
    • Dione
    • Rhea
    • Titan
    • Iapetus
  • Venus Facts For Kids | Venus Atmosphere, Mass, Volume, and Other Features

    Venus Facts For Kids | Venus Atmosphere, Mass, Volume, and Other Features

    Venus has long been admired for its exquisite grace and beauty in a bright moonless night. One of the most brilliant, glowing, and exquisite-color planet Venus seems like a twin planet to the Earth. Its mass is almost equal to that of our planet and both are alike in their sizes. Astronomers hold that Venus is so much bright that it often casts its shadow and its brightness ranges from -3.8 to -4.6 magnitudes. However, it always comes after Sun and the Moon when it comes to brightness. Are you now ready for the most exciting Venus facts for kids?

    The light of Venus can be observed in a dark moonless night. Scientists believe that the atmosphere in Venus is fairly hostile and it’s 93 times heavier than that of Earth’s atmosphere. The planet Venus is also known to rotate slightly backwards which is not practised by other planets. Unlike other planets including Earth, Venus has no moons. The planet seems like a bright star in a sky but through telescope the image becomes clearer and parted from other stars. Venus lacks magnetic field probably due to its slow rotation. There isn’t any satellite either. Besides, no small craters have been observed in Venus.

    Venus Facts for Kids

    • The mass of a planet Venus calculates around 4.8685 × 1024 kg
    • The volume of this planet is 92.843 × 1010 km3
    • The equatorial radius of Venus is 6051.8 km
    • The polar radius is calculated at 6051.8 km
    • Venus has a volumetric mean radius of 6051.8 km
    • The average density of Venus is 5243 kg/m3
    • The surface gravity of this planet is 8.87 m/s2
    • Venus has a surface acceleration measured at 8.87 m/s2
    • The escape velocity of Venus is 10.36 km/s
    • The visual magnitude of Venus is minus 4.40
    • The black-body temperature of Venus is 184.2 K
    • There are no rings in Venus

    Orbital Parameters | Venus Facts For Kids

    • The number of days in a Synodic periodic is 583.92 in Venus
    • The mean orbital velocity is 35.02 km/s
    • The maximum orbital velocity is 35.26 km/s
    • The minimum orbital velocity is 34.79 km/s
    • The orbit inclination is 3.39 degrees
    • The orbit eccentricity in Venus is 0.0067
    • The length of a single day is 2802 hours
    • There are 224.695 days in a tropical orbit period

    Venus Observational Parameters | Venus Facts For Kids

    • Venus came to be known in the prehistoric times and the discoverer is unknown
    • The minimum distance of Venus from the planet Earth is 38,000,000 km
    • The maximum distance of Venus from the planet Earth is 261,000,000 km
    • The maximum apparent diameter of the Venus from Earth is 66.0 seconds of arc
    • The minimum apparent diameter of the Venus from Earth is 9.7 seconds of arc
    • Venus has a maximum visual magnitude of minus 4.6

     Venus Atmosphere | Venus Facts For Kids

    • The surface pressure at this planet is 92 bars
    • The surface density in Venus is calculated at 65 kg/m3
    • The scale height is calculated as 15.9 km
    • The total mass of a Venus atmosphere is 4.8 × 1020
    • The speed of wind ranges from 0.3 to 1.0 m/s
    • The average temperature at this planet is 737 K (464 C)
    • The average molecular weight is calculated at 43.45 g/mole