What phenomenon causes Jupiter and Saturn to emit more heat than they absorb from the Sun?
A) heat left over from their formation
B) nuclear fusion of hydrogen to helium in their liquid metallic hydrogen cores
C) radioactive decay in their liquid metallic hydrogen cores
D) heat generated by the impact of meteorites in their atmospheres

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Jupiter and Saturn emit more heat than they absorb from the Sun primarily due to the heat left over from their formation. This residual heat is a result of the gravitational contraction during their formation billions of years ago.

What Phenomenon Causes Jupiter and Saturn to Emit More Heat