The average density of the large, outer planets is
A) close to the density of water.
B) much higher than the density of Earth rocks, due to the great gravitational compression of their interiors.
C) very much less than the density of water because of the amount of hydrogen they contain.
D) close to the density of basaltic rocks on Earth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The large, outer planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune) are primarily composed of gases and ices, which gives them an average density that is close to the density of water. This contrasts with the terrestrial planets, which have higher densities due to their rocky compositions.

The Average Density of the Large, Outer Planets Is