Uranus: A Possible Ice Giant

Uranus is the seventh planet from the sun. Thus, it lies in the outer half of the solar system. It is the third largest planet and named after the god of the sky. Unlike the rocky Earth, the outer planets of Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune and Uranus are gas or ice giants. Some scientists believe that Uranus is an ice giant. Uranus has 27 known satellites and has a faint planetary ring.

Features of Uranus

Atmosphere: The planet’s atmosphere consists of hydrogen (83%), helium (15%) and methane (2%) gases.  However, the planet’s interior has a different chemistry. The interior consists of frozen ammonia, water, and methane.

Planetary Rings: Like Saturn, the planet has a planetary ring. However, the planetary ring is very faint. Scientists believe that the ring is the result of the destruction of one of her moons.

Planet’s Structure: Scientists also believe that Uranus has three planetary layers. The outermost layer is an atmosphere made up of hydrogen and helium gas. The middle layer is an icy mantle. However, the center of the planet is a core made up of iron and nickel.

Rainfall of Diamonds: One interesting aspect of the planet is the possibility of a diamond rainfall. The theory is that high pressures and temperatures break up methane into carbon and hydrogen. Then the carbon atoms condense into diamonds that rain down through the icy mantle.

Facts About Uranus

Reflections

Vocabulary

• atmosphere
• core
• gas giant

Notes

Uranus is the seventh planet from the sun. As a result, it lies in the outer half of the solar system.
This ringed planet possesses over 27 satellites.
The interior of the planet consist of different types of ice. Thus, it is an ice giant planet.

Bibliography

• A Solar System Study Guide
• About the Solar System
• NASA Science: Solar System Exploration