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Chapter 14: Problem 12

Why do Uranus and Neptune have higher densities than Jupiter and Saturn?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Uranus and Neptune have higher densities because they are composed of heavier volatile substances such as water, ammonia and methane, contrary to Jupiter and Saturn which are mainly composed of lighter elements hydrogen and helium. Moreover, the increased gravitational pull and resultant pressure on Uranus and Neptune, given their composition of denser materials, also contributes to their higher densities.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the Composition of Planets

Firstly, one needs to comprehend that the density of a planet depends on its composition and structure. Jupiter and Saturn are known as gas giants and consist mainly of hydrogen and helium. On the other hand, Uranus and Neptune, also classified as ice giants, are composed of heavier volatile substances such as water, ammonia and methane.
02

Understanding the Influence of Composition on Density

The density of a planet is given by its mass divided by its volume. Hydrogen and helium are the lightest elements, therefore, despite the large volume of Jupiter and Saturn, their total mass remains relatively low, resulting in a lower density. In contrast, the heavier volatile substances in Uranus and Neptune increase their overall mass. While these planets might be smaller in size, the presence of denser materials leads to a higher density.
03

Understanding Role of Pressure

Aside from composition, the pressure exerted by the gravity of the planet also influences its density. Both Uranus and Neptune, although smaller in size than Jupiter and Saturn, have a higher concentration of heavy elements, which increases their gravitational pull, thereby increasing pressure and therefore density.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Why is it so difficult to see features in the atmosphere of Uranus?

Briefly describe the evidence supporting the idea that Uranus was struck by a large planetlike object several billion years ago.

Use the Stary Night Enthusiast \({ }^{\mathrm{TM}}\) program to observe Pluto and Charon. First select Options \(>\) Viewing Location from the menu. At the top of the Viewing Location dialog box, select position hovering over and Pluto in the drop boxes. Then click on the center of the map of Pluto that appears in the dialog window and click the Set Location button. Use the elevation buttons in the toolbar to increase the distance from the surface of Pluto to about \(35,000 \mathrm{~km}\). Use the Location scroller (hold down the Shift key while holding down the mouse button and moving the mouse, to rotate the view around Pluto. In the toolbar, set the Time Flow Rate to 1 hour, then click on the Run Time Forward button (a triangle that points to the right). (a) Estimate Charon's orbital period. (b) By following a spot on Pluto's surface, estimate Pluto's rotation period. How does it compare to your answer in part (a)? (c) Select Options > Viewing Location from the menu and set the dropdown boxes at the top of the Viewing Location dialog window to read position moving with and Pluto. Then select the Above orbital plane option and click the Set Location button. Open the Find pane and double-click the entry for the Sun to center the Sun in the view. Set the Time Flow Rate to 1 year, and click on the Run Time Forward button to see the apparent motion of the Sun as seen from Pluto. Observe the motion for several centuries of simulated time. Does the Sun always appear to move at the same speed? Use the properties of Pluto's orbit to explain why or why not.

Why are Uranus and Neptune distinctly blue-green in color, while Jupiter or Saturn are not?

Are there any trans-Neptunian objects that are not members of the Kuiper belt? Are there any members of the Kuiper belt that are not trans-Neptunian objects? Explain.
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