Planetary Storms: The Fierce Weather Across the Solar System
Lesson Express
Q: How does Jupiter's thick atmosphere contribute to its extreme weather?
A: Jupiter's thick atmosphere holds in more heat and moisture, which creates high pressure that powers intense storms. The dense atmosphere also traps energy, making storms much stronger and longer lasting.
Q: Why do storms on Jupiter persist despite the planet's distance from the Sun?
A: Jupiter generates its own internal heat from deep within, which fuels the storms. This heat keeps the atmosphere active and helps sustain storms, even though the planet is farther from the Sun than Earth.
Q: What role does hydrogen play in Jupiter's storms?
A: Hydrogen is the main gas in Jupiter's atmosphere. Under extreme pressure, it turns into a liquid, releasing large amounts of energy that help intensify the planet's storms.
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