Why do outer planets like Jupiter have huge gaseous atmospheres of hydrogen and helium while the inner planets do not?
A) These gases were more abundant in the outer regions of the accretion disk where the outer planets formed.
B) The outer planets grew massive quickly enough to gravitationally hold on to these gases before the solar wind dispersed the accretion disk.
C) The inner planets were too close to the Sun,and solar winds blew away their original gaseous atmospheres.
D) Frequent early collisions by comets with the inner planets caused most of their original atmospheres to dissipate.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The outer planets grew massive quickly enough to gravitationally hold on to these gases before the solar wind dispersed the accretion disk. This allowed them to retain their gaseous atmospheres. In contrast, the inner planets did not have enough gravity to hold on to these gases, which were blown away by the solar wind.

Why Do Outer Planets Like Jupiter Have Huge Gaseous Atmospheres