Jupiter: The Giant Planet

Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system and is known as a gas giant. It is named after the king of the Roman gods and is easily visible from Earth with the naked eye. Let's explore some key facts and features of this fascinating planet!

Composition and Atmosphere

Jupiter is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, similar to the composition of the sun. Its atmosphere is made up of swirling clouds of ammonia and water vapor, along with bands of colorful clouds made of ammonia crystals and other compounds. The Great Red Spot, a massive storm, is a prominent feature on Jupiter's surface.

Size and Moons

Jupiter is so large that it could fit all the other planets in our solar system inside it! It has a total of 79 known moons, the largest of which are Ganymede, Callisto, Io, and Europa. These moons have diverse features, including active volcanoes on Io and a subsurface ocean on Europa, making them intriguing targets for scientific exploration.

Study Guide

1. What is the primary composition of Jupiter's atmosphere?
2. How does Jupiter compare in size to the other planets in our solar system?
3. Name the four largest moons of Jupiter and describe one unique feature of each.
4. What is the Great Red Spot, and why is it significant?

Answers

1. The primary composition of Jupiter's atmosphere is hydrogen and helium, along with ammonia and water vapor.
2. Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system and could fit all the other planets inside it.
3. The four largest moons of Jupiter are Ganymede, Callisto, Io, and Europa. Io has active volcanoes, and Europa has a subsurface ocean.
4. The Great Red Spot is a massive storm on Jupiter's surface, and it is significant because it has been raging for centuries and is one of the most recognizable features of the planet.

[Jupiter] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• The solar systemScience • Third Grade