The Jovian Planets

The Jovian Planets

• These Planets were capable nebular capture• Systems of moon formed in disks• Colder environment needed for nebular capture

due to greater distance from the Sun• Temperatures remained cool enough and gravity

was strong enough to retain Hydrogen and Helium• Differences in planets can be related to distance

from the Sun• Ring system due to stronger tidal forces

The Jovian Planets

Jupiter’s Structure

Equatorial Bulge

Radius and Mass of a Jovian Planet

Jovian Planet Interiors

Jupiter’s Atmosphere

Belts and Zones

• Belts and zones are caused by convetion

• Lighter clouds are colder ammonia

• Darker clouds are warmer ammonia hydrosulfide

• Note IR image which indicates temperature

The Great Red Spot

The Great Red Spot: A Big Storm

Jovian Atmospheres

Methane and Blue Light

Jovian Magnetospheres