Their distance from their host star is crucial from "summary" of Exoplanets and Alien Solar Systems by Tahir Yaqoob
The distance of a planet from its host star is a critical factor in determining its characteristics and potential for habitability. This distance, known as the planet's orbital distance or semi-major axis, has a direct impact on the planet's temperature, atmosphere, and potential for liquid water. Planets that are too close to their host star may be too hot to support life as we know it. High temperatures can lead to the loss of water and volatile compounds, resulting in a barren, inhospitable environment. These planets, known as "hot Jupiters," are often found orbiting very close to their host stars, with orbital periods of just a few days. On the other hand, planets that are too far from their host star may be too cold to support liquid water on their surfaces. These icy worlds, known as "ice giants," are found in the outer regions of planetary systems and have frigid temperatures that make them inhospitable to life as we know it. The ideal distance for a planet to support life as we know it is within the star's habitable zone, also known as the "Goldilocks zone." This is the region around a star where conditions are just right for liquid water to exist on the planet's surface. Planets in the habitable zone may have the potential to support life, depending on other factors such as their composition, atmosphere, and geological activity.- The distance of a planet from its host star is a crucial factor in determining its potential for habitability. Planets that are too close or too far from their star may be inhospitable to life as we know it, while planets in the habitable zone have the potential to support liquid water and, potentially, life.
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