Gas Giants: More Complex Than We Thought
2025-06-22
Our understanding of gas giants like Jupiter and Saturn has been revolutionized by recent findings. Instead of a simple hydrogen and helium composition, these planets possess surprisingly complex internal structures. New data from probes like Juno and Cassini reveal a 'fuzzy' core, lacking a distinct transition between the outer layers and the inner core. Two formation theories exist: core accretion and disk instability. Furthermore, phenomena like Jupiter's Great Red Spot and the possible 'helium rain' on Saturn highlight the dynamic processes within these giants. These discoveries not only deepen our understanding of our solar system but also offer crucial insights for studying exoplanets.