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Difficulty: EasyThe Solar System and Planets

Unlike the outer planets that consist predominantly of thick gas and ice layers, which planet possesses a solid, rocky surface with a metallic core?

  1. A
    Saturn
  2. MarsAnswer
  3. C
    Neptune
  4. D
    Jupiter

Answer

Mars is a terrestrial planet with a solid rocky surface and metallic core.
Mars is classified as an inner terrestrial planet, meaning it possesses a solid silicate crust, a mantle, and a dense metallic core, unlike the outer Jovian planets.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Differentiate between the two major categories of planets in the solar system.
The inner four planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars) are terrestrial, rocky bodies, whereas the outer four planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune) are gas and ice giants.
Planets formed inside the frost line condensed primarily from refractory metals and silicates, producing solid surfaces.
2
Evaluate the choices to identify the terrestrial planet.
Mars is the only terrestrial planet listed, while Saturn, Neptune, and Jupiter are all outer giant planets.
Mars has a distinct solid planetary crust, mantle, and metallic core.

Key Concept

Distinction between terrestrial (rocky) planets and Jovian (gas/ice giant) planets
Estimated Time:40s
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Topics

The Solar System and Planets

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