Planetary Types
Planetary types refer to the classification of planets based on their physical characteristics and composition. The main categories include terrestrial planets, which are rocky and have solid surfaces, such as Earth and Mars, and gas giants, which are large planets composed mainly of gases, like Jupiter and Saturn. There are also ice giants, such as Uranus and Neptune, which have icy compositions and are smaller than gas giants.
These classifications help scientists understand the formation and evolution of planets within a solar system. Each type has distinct features, such as atmospheres, rings, and moons, which contribute to the diversity of celestial bodies in the universe. Understanding planetary types aids in the study of exoplanets and the potential for life beyond Earth.