In terms of distance from the sun the planets can be divided into inner planets and outer planets. Inner planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars) lie inside the main belt of asteroids and outer planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune) lie outside the asteroid belt.
A second way of classifying planets (I've never heard of this way...I just made it up, but it seems reasonable) is to classify them on the basis of retained fluids (gases or liquids). The planets Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars are fluid poor while Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune are fluid rich. Some might dispute Venus and Earth being fluid poor, but they are in comparison to the last named four planets. The 'inner planets' might be called Depleted Planets, for want of a name.
Still another way to classify them is by composition. The inner planets are known as rocky planets, and those outside the asteroid belt are known as gas giants.
Your question was a bit vague, so I hope I helped you.
2007-02-01 14:26:12
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answer #1
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answered by David A 5
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