Jupiter gives back into space twice the energy it gets from the distant Sun. Where is thisenergy coming from, for the most part?
A)the impact energy of comets like SL-9
B)helium rain descending into its mantle and core
C)the slow escape of gravitational energy left from its formation
D)the radioactive decay of U-238 in its iron-rich core, just as with the Earth
E)the combined tidal stress of all four large Galilean moons

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The primary source of Jupiter's excess energy is the slow release of gravitational energy that has been trapped since the planet's formation. This process involves the gradual contraction of Jupiter's massive atmosphere, converting potential gravitational energy into heat.

Jupiter Gives Back into Space Twice the Energy It Gets