Alike and Different: Discussion

Similarities

• Differentiated (heavy elements sink to center)
• Internal heat source (except Uranus?)
• Convection carries heat (core, mantle, atmosphere)
• Magnetic fields (Earth, Mercury(?), Jupiter, Saturn; Uranus, Neptune)
• Pressure balance (interiors, atmospheres)

Differences

• Composition (rock, metal vs. hydrogen, helium)
• -> Density (high vs. low)
• Solid surface? (terrestrial: yes, giant: no)
• Satellites? (terrestrial: few, giant: many)
• Rings? (terrestrial: no, giant: yes)