Chapter 16: Problem 11
Describe four characteristics of the terrestrial planets.
Short Answer
Expert verified
Terrestrial planets have a solid surface, thin atmosphere, are smaller in size and mass, and are closer to the Sun.
Step by step solution
01
Definition of Terrestrial Planets
Terrestrial planets, also known as rocky planets, are planets that are primarily composed of silicate rocks or metals. They are found within the inner solar system and include Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars.
02
Solid Surface
Terrestrial planets have a solid and rocky surface, unlike the gas giants, which are composed mainly of hydrogen and helium. This solid surface allows for features such as mountains, valleys, and volcanoes.
03
Atmosphere
These planets have relatively thin atmospheres. For example, Earth has a nitrogen and oxygen-rich atmosphere, while Mars has a thin atmosphere mostly composed of carbon dioxide.
04
Smaller Size and Mass
Terrestrial planets are smaller and less massive compared to the gas giants. Their densities are higher due to the presence of rocky materials.
05
Proximity to the Sun
Terrestrial planets are located closer to the Sun in the inner solar system, which affects their temperatures and environmental conditions.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Solid Surface
Terrestrial planets are defined by their solid surfaces, which make them distinct from gas giants. These planets, including Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars, possess a crust that is made up of silicate rocks and metals. This solid crust allows the formation of various geological features such as:
- Mountains
- Valleys
- Volcanoes
- And even impact craters from asteroid collisions
Atmosphere
Unlike gas giants with thick gaseous envelopes, terrestrial planets have much thinner atmospheres. The composition and density of these atmospheres vary significantly among the planets:
- Mercury: Almost negligible atmosphere, consisting primarily of oxygen, sodium, and hydrogen.
- Venus: Thick and toxic atmosphere rich in carbon dioxide and clouds of sulfuric acid, contributing to its greenhouse effect.
- Earth: A life-supporting, nitrogen and oxygen-rich atmosphere, which also regulates the planet's climate through greenhouse gases.
- Mars: A thin atmosphere mainly composed of carbon dioxide, with traces of argon and nitrogen, causing its surface temperatures to vary greatly.
Planetary Composition
Terrestrial planets are primarily composed of rocky material and metals. This composition influences their density, size, and internal structure. Common elements found on these planets include:
- Silicon
- Oxygen
- Iron
- Magnesium
Solar System Geography
Terrestrial planets occupy a specific region in our solar system known as the "inner solar system." This proximity to the Sun has several implications:
- Higher surface temperatures than the outer planets
- Shorter orbital periods
- Higher exposure to solar winds and radiation