What are planets defined as in our solar system?

In the context of our solar system, planets are defined as large objects that orbit a star and have cleared their orbit of other debris. This definition emphasizes two key characteristics: the orbiting of a star and the gravitational influence necessary to maintain a clear path in space.

To be classified as a planet, an object must not only travel around a star, such as our Sun, but it must also be massive enough that its gravity has allowed it to dominate its orbital zone. This means that planets have the gravitational pull to remove smaller objects and significant debris from their vicinity, maintaining a relatively clear path along their orbital route.

The other options do not accurately reflect the definition of planets. For instance, not all large objects that orbit a star can support life (which is a misconception highlighted in the first choice). Additionally, the third option incorrectly describes planets as small celestial bodies; in fact, planets are relatively large compared to smaller bodies like asteroids or comets. Lastly, while the fourth choice mentions solid spherical bodies, it incorrectly states that planets emit their own light; in reality, they reflect light from their star, unlike stars that produce light through nuclear fusion. Thus, defining planets by their ability to clear their orbits alongside their stellar orbits captures