GS PrelimsGeography (Physical)Origin and Evolution of the Earth1997

Which one of the following stars is nearest to the earth?

Polaris

Alpha Centauri

Sun

Sirius

Correct Answer: Option C

Explanation

1. The question asks to identify the star that is nearest to the earth. 2. The Sun is the star located at the center of our own Solar System. 3. The Earth orbits the Sun. 4. Therefore, the Sun is, by a vast margin, the nearest star to the Earth (distance approx. 1 Astronomical Unit or 150 million km). 5. Alpha Centauri is the closest star system *outside* our solar system (approx. 4.37 light-years away). 6. Sirius (approx. 8.6 light-years) and Polaris (approx. 433 light-years) are much farther away.

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