8.7: Planet Saturn
Saturn is “the ringed planet. ” Although all four Gas Giant planets have rings, Saturn’s are by far the most-spectacular and intricate. Saturn’s upper atmosphere is not as turbulent when compared to Jupiter’s upper atmosphere; it does not show as many markings and spots as Jupiter. The atmosphere shows an odd polar hexagon, due to Saturn’s atmospheric jet stream. There are some other interesting Saturnian characteristics. First, the density of Saturn is so low that it would float in water – if you could find a bathtub big enough to hold Saturn. Much like Jupiter, Saturn probably has a very small rocky core surrounded by hydrogen and helium. And also like Jupiter, Saturn also experiences aurora and lightning.
Saturn at a Glance
Characteristics to Compare
Atmosphere
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Rotation
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Revolution
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Rings
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Magnetic Field
- Yes
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Magnetic Field
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Rings
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Revolution