Solar nebula theory explains the low mean densities of the Jovian planets and high mean densities of terrestrial planets.

Question

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The solar nebula theory suggests that the Jovian planets formed further from the Sun where it was cooler, allowing them to capture large amounts of lighter gases (hydrogen and helium), leading to their low mean densities. Terrestrial planets formed closer to the Sun, where it was too warm for gases to condense, resulting in their composition mainly of heavier elements, hence their higher mean densities.

Solar Nebula Theory Explains the Low Mean Densities of the Jovian