Which planet is closest to the Sun?

Mercury is the planet closest to the Sun, orbiting at an average distance of about 57.91 million kilometers (36 million miles). This proximity to the Sun results in extreme temperatures on Mercury, where the side facing the Sun can become extremely hot, while the side facing away can drop to very cold temperatures.

In addition to its distance, Mercury is a small, rocky planet and has a very thin atmosphere, which contributes to its temperature variations. Its quick orbit around the Sun also means that it completes a full revolution in just 88 Earth days. Understanding these attributes of Mercury provides insight into its role within the solar system and how its characteristics compare to other planets.