What are Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune called?

In the solar system, planets are classified based on their size, composition, and position relative to the Sun. Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune are known as Jovian planets or gas giants. They are called “Jovian” after Jupiter (Latin: Jove), the largest planet in our solar system, because these planets share similar characteristics.

Jovian planets have the following features:

1. 
   

   Large size and mass – They are much larger than the inner, rocky planets.

   
   


2. 
   

   Gaseous composition – Primarily hydrogen and helium, with trace amounts of methane, ammonia, and water vapor.

   
   


3. 
   

   No solid surface – Unlike terrestrial planets like Earth or Mars, Jovian planets do not have a solid crust.

   
   


4. 
   

   Multiple moons – Each has a complex system of moons; Jupiter alone has more than 90 confirmed moons.

   
   


5. 
   

   Ring systems – Except Uranus and Neptune, which have faint rings, these planets also feature prominent rings, especially Saturn.

   
   

By contrast, terrestrial planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars) are rocky, smaller, and denser, with solid surfaces and relatively few moons. This distinction helps astronomers categorize planets and understand their formation and evolution.

Analyzing the options:

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  A) Jovian planets – ✅ Correct. Refers to gas giants like Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.

  
  


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  B) Terrestrial planets – Incorrect; these are rocky planets closer to the Sun.

  
  


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  C) Both A & B – Incorrect; Jovian and terrestrial are distinct groups.

  
  


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  D) None of these – Incorrect.

  
  

Jovian planets play a crucial role in the solar system: they influence the orbital dynamics of other bodies, protect inner planets from comet impacts, and provide key insights into planetary formation. Understanding these planets also helps scientists study exoplanets in other star systems, as many discovered exoplanets are similar to gas giants.

✅ Correct Answer: A) Jovian planets