The excess heat produced by Saturn is the result of
A) nuclear reactions in the liquid metallic hydrogen core.
B) radioactive decay.
C) hot molten lava rising to the surface.
D) the planet's continual slow contraction.
E) the large number of meteorite and comet impacts that occur each year.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Saturn's excess heat is primarily due to the planet's slow gravitational contraction, which releases energy as heat. This process is known as Kelvin-Helmholtz contraction.

The Excess Heat Produced by Saturn Is the Result of