In basic astronomy, which planet in our solar system is located nearest to the Sun and therefore completes its orbit in the shortest time?

Introduction / Context:
This question belongs to elementary astronomy, a common area in school-level science and competitive exams. Knowledge of the order of planets in the solar system and their basic characteristics, such as distance from the Sun, is essential. Here, you are asked to recall which planet orbits closest to the Sun.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks for the planet nearest to the Sun.
• The options are Venus, Mercury, Jupiter, and Saturn.
• We assume the standard model of the solar system with the Sun at the centre and planets arranged in their usual order.

Concept / Approach:
The order of planets from the Sun outward is: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Therefore, Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun. Remembering this basic sequence enables you to answer many questions on planetary distances, orbital periods, and temperatures.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the sequence of planets from the Sun: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune.Step 2: Identify the first planet in this list, which is Mercury.Step 3: Confirm that Mercury is indeed closest to the Sun and completes its orbit in a very short period compared to other planets.Step 4: Compare Mercury with other options like Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn, which lie further away.Step 5: Select Mercury as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Any standard school textbook or basic astronomy reference will show a diagram of the solar system. In that diagram, Mercury is always placed closest to the Sun. This is consistent across educational materials, so verification is straightforward. Such diagrams are useful for quickly revising the order of planets before an exam.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Venus: Second planet from the Sun, not the nearest.Jupiter: Fifth planet from the Sun and the largest planet, but located far beyond the inner planets.Saturn: Sixth planet from the Sun and known for its rings, not for being closest to the Sun.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners confuse Venus and Mercury because Venus is sometimes called Earth’s sister planet and is very bright in the sky. However, brightness does not mean closeness to the Sun. Always rely on the correct order of planets instead of visual impressions from the night sky. Creating mnemonics to remember planetary order can be very helpful.

Final Answer:
The planet that is nearest to the Sun in our solar system is Mercury.