gaasjätted

Gaasjätted, often translated as "gas giants," are a class of planets in astronomy characterized by their immense size and composition primarily of hydrogen and helium. Unlike terrestrial planets which have a solid surface, gas giants are thought to lack a well-defined solid core and instead consist of a thick atmosphere that gradually increases in density towards the center. The immense gravitational forces of these planets allow them to capture and retain vast amounts of lighter elements from their surroundings.

The most prominent examples in our own solar system are Jupiter and Saturn. These planets are distinguished by their swirling cloud bands, prominent ring systems (especially Saturn's), and numerous moons. Uranus and Neptune, while also gas giants, are often referred to as "ice giants" because their composition includes a higher proportion of heavier volatile substances like water, ammonia, and methane, which are in a liquid or icy state under the extreme pressures and temperatures within their interiors.

The formation of gas giants is a key aspect of planetary science, with the prevailing theory suggesting they form in the outer regions of protoplanetary disks where temperatures are low enough for ices to condense, allowing for the rapid accumulation of gas. Their powerful gravitational influence can significantly impact the orbits of other celestial bodies within a planetary system.