The overall interior structure of the Jovian planets is expected to be
A) three-layered: a rocky core covered by liquid metallic hydrogen and a thin gaseous hydrogen/helium atmosphere.
B) four-layered: a rocky core, a semifluid ice layer that may overlap with the rocky core, a liquid mantle of hydrogen, and a gaseous hydrogen and helium atmosphere.
C) two-layered: a large, solid, rocky core surrounded by an extensive gaseous atmosphere.
D) four-layered: a solid inner core, a liquid iron outer core, a semifluid rocky mantle, and a solid crust.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Jovian planets are expected to have a four-layered structure consisting of a rocky core, a semifluid ice layer, a liquid mantle of hydrogen, and a gaseous hydrogen and helium atmosphere. This structure accounts for the high pressures and temperatures found within these gas giants, allowing for the existence of exotic states of matter such as liquid metallic hydrogen.

The Overall Interior Structure of the Jovian Planets Is Expected