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Mobile App Chapter 10: Problem 16
Describe how the giant planets differ from the terrestrial planets.
Short Answer
Expert verified
Giant planets are larger, composed mostly of hydrogen and helium, lack solid surfaces, have complex weather systems, and possess ring systems and many moons. Terrestrial planets are smaller, rocky, and have defined surfaces and fewer moons.
Step by step solution
01
- Understanding the Classification
Planets in our solar system are classified into two main categories: terrestrial planets and giant (or Jovian) planets. This classification helps to understand their differences in terms of composition, size, and other characteristics.
02
- Identifying Terrestrial Planets
The terrestrial planets include Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars. These planets are primarily composed of rock and metals. They have solid surfaces with clearly defined features such as mountains, valleys, and craters.
03
- Identifying Giant Planets
The giant planets, which include Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, are much larger in size compared to the terrestrial planets. They do not have a solid surface and are composed mostly of hydrogen and helium, with possible rocky cores.
04
- Comparing Sizes and Masses
Giant planets are significantly larger and more massive than terrestrial planets. For instance, Jupiter is more than 300 times the mass of Earth, while the largest terrestrial planet, Earth, is nowhere near this size.
05
- Atmosphere Composition
The atmospheres of giant planets are thick and made predominantly of lighter elements like hydrogen and helium, whereas terrestrial planets have thinner atmospheres composed mainly of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other heavier elements.
06
- Temperature and Weather Systems
Giant planets have extremely dynamic and complex weather systems with intense storms and high winds, as seen in Jupiter’s Great Red Spot. Terrestrial planets exhibit more moderate and predictable weather patterns in comparison.
07
- Presence of Rings and Moons
Another key difference is that all giant planets have ring systems and numerous moons. In contrast, terrestrial planets have few or no moons and lack substantial ring systems.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
planet classification
Planets in our solar system are divided into two main types: terrestrial planets and giant planets. This classification helps us understand the differences in their composition, size, and other characteristics. Terrestrial planets are also called rocky planets, and giant planets are often referred to as Jovian planets.
terrestrial planets
The terrestrial planets in our solar system are Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars. These planets are made mostly of rock and metal. They have solid surfaces with distinct features. Mountains, valleys, and craters are common on terrestrial planets. These planets are smaller in size compared to the giant planets.
giant planets
The Jovian or giant planets include Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. These planets are much larger than the terrestrial planets. They are composed mostly of gases like hydrogen and helium. Unlike terrestrial planets, they don’t have solid surfaces. Some may have rocky cores surrounded by thick layers of gas.
planetary composition
Planetary composition varies significantly between terrestrial and giant planets. Terrestrial planets are rich in elements like iron, nickel, and silicate minerals. Giant planets mainly consist of light elements such as hydrogen and helium. The differences in composition account for their varied physical properties and structures.
planetary atmospheres
The atmospheres of terrestrial and giant planets also differ. Terrestrial planets have thinner atmospheres with components like nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. In contrast, giant planets have thick atmospheres mainly containing hydrogen and helium. This thick atmosphere creates dramatic weather patterns.
planetary sizes
The size difference between terrestrial and giant planets is enormous. Jupiter, for example, is over 300 times the mass of Earth. Terrestrial planets are much smaller. This size disparity affects many other characteristics, including gravitational strength and orbital dynamics.
weather systems
Weather systems on giant planets are extremely dynamic. Jupiter’s Great Red Spot is an example of a massive storm that has been active for centuries. Giant planets experience high winds and intense storms. Terrestrial planets have more stable and predictable weather patterns, but still experience phenomena like rain and clouds.
ring systems and moons
A distinguishing feature of giant planets is their ring systems and numerous moons. All giant planets have rings, with Saturn’s being the most famous. They also have many moons, often dozens. On the other hand, terrestrial planets have few or no moons and do not have notable ring systems.
