Position in the Solar System

Earth is located in the Goldilocks zone or habitable zone, the perfect distance from the Sun, where conditions are just right for life.
At about 150 million kilometres away from the Sun, the Earth receives an optimum amount of solar radiation, allowing it to maintain a suitable temperature range for liquid water, a prerequisite for life.
If Earth was too near to the Sun, it would be too hot, causing water to evaporate; if it was too far, it would be too cold and all water would freeze.

Earth’s nearly circular orbit around Sun ensures the relatively even distribution of sunlight throughout the year.
Tilt: Earth is tilted at approximately 23.5 degrees relative to its plane of orbit. This tilt results in seasons, with periods of varying daylight and temperatures, influencing life processes.
Without tilt, one side of Earth would be in perpetual darkness and the other in constant light. Such extremes could limit the types of life that could exist.

The moon stabilises Earth’s tilt. Without the moon, the tilt of the Earth might vary over time, causing drastic climate changes.
The gravitational pull of the moon creates tidal forces on Earth, leading to the ebb and flow of oceans. Tides have been influential in the evolution of coastal species and the development of tidal ecosystems.

Earth’s position after the asteroid belt in the solar system significantly reduces the chances of catastrophic asteroid impacts, making the planet a safer place for life.
The role of Jupiter: The giant gas planet Jupiter further out in the solar system has a strong gravitational field that diverts many space objects that could potentially hit Earth.

Earth has a strong magnetic field, generated by its iron core, which deflects harmful solar wind - charged particles emitted by the sun. This magnetic shield, known as the magnetosphere, helps to maintain the Earth’s atmosphere and protect life from harmful solar radiation.