What is a popular theory for the difference in atmospheres of the Jovian planets versus terrestrial planets? A) High temperatures and solar wind in the inner planets allowed most of the volatiles to be driven off the terrestrial planets, but not the Jovian planets. B) The Jovian planets trapped most of the comets which carried the gases. C) The Jovian planets are just bigger, so they trap more gases. D) The terrestrial planets are too cold to retain anything but heavy gases.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The high temperatures and solar wind in the inner solar system caused most of the lighter gases to be driven off the terrestrial planets, while the Jovian planets were far enough away to retain these gases.

What Is a Popular Theory for the Difference in Atmospheres