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

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Jupiter and Saturn are believed to be emitting more heat than they absorb from the Sun due to the heat left over from their formation. As the planets were forming, their material would have been pulled together by gravity, causing their interiors to heat up. This residual heat is believed to still be radiating from the planets today, contributing to their overall heat output.

What Phenomenon Causes Jupiter and Saturn to Emit More Heat