Uranus and Neptune are similar in size and have similar atmospheres,but Neptune is significantly farther away from the Sun than is Uranus,by a ratio of about 30/19.What conclusion can be reached,therefore,from the fact that Neptune's temperature is about the same as Uranus's?
A) Neptune's atmosphere must contain a more effective greenhouse gas to maintain more solar energy.
B) Neptune must have a significant source of internal energy or heat.
C) The solar wind is able to penetrate to Neptune's cloud tops and deposit energy there,whereas Uranus's magnetic field deflects the solar wind.
D) Neptune is being distorted,therefore heating more than Uranus by tidal effects from Jupiter and Saturn.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since Neptune is significantly farther from the Sun than Uranus, it receives less solar energy. Therefore, if Neptune's temperature is about the same as Uranus's, it must have a significant source of internal energy or heat. This is likely due to the residual heat from its formation and the decay of radioactive elements in its interior.

Uranus and Neptune Are Similar in Size and Have Similar