Researchers at the University of Zurich developed new computer models for the interiors of Uranus and Neptune. They say the usual label "ice giants" is too simple because the planets are still not well understood.
The team begins with a random density profile inside a planet. They calculate the gravitational field that matches observations and then infer a possible composition. They repeat this cycle many times to find models that fit the data. With this method, the researchers show the interiors could be rich in rock or rich in water. The work also offers ideas to explain the planets' strange, multi-pole magnetic fields, and the team says we need missions to learn more.
Difficult words
- interior — the inside part of a planet or objectinteriors
- density — how much mass is in a given space
- gravitational field — the force around a planet that pulls objects
- composition — what something is made of
- infer — to reach a conclusion from given facts
- model — a simple representation of something realmodels
- mission — a trip with a specific scientific purposemissions
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Discussion questions
- Do you think we need missions to Uranus and Neptune? Why or why not?
- Which result in the article interests you more: interiors rich in rock or rich in water? Why?
- How would you explain why scientists repeat models many times to check them?
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