What is the hottest planet?
Quick Answer
Venus is the hottest planet at 465°C (869°F) average surface temperature — hotter than Mercury despite being nearly twice as far from the Sun. Its thick CO₂ atmosphere creates a runaway greenhouse effect.
The Full Story
Despite being the second planet from the Sun (108 million km away vs Mercury's 58 million km), Venus holds the title of hottest planet with an average surface temperature of about 465°C (869°F). This is hot enough to melt lead (327°C). The reason is Venus's atmosphere: 96.5% carbon dioxide creates an extreme greenhouse effect, trapping solar energy. The atmospheric pressure at Venus's surface is 92 times that of Earth — equivalent to being 900 meters underwater. Mercury, with virtually no atmosphere, reaches 430°C on its sun-facing side but drops to -180°C on its dark side. Venus's temperature barely varies between day and night or equator and poles.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"Why Venus is HOTTER Than Mercury — The Runaway Greenhouse Planet"