The outer planets and inner planets differ in several significant ways. Here are some points to clarify:
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Composition:
- Outer Planets: They consist primarily of gas and liquid, which is why they are often referred to as gas giants (Jupiter and Saturn) and ice giants (Uranus and Neptune). They do not have large solid surfaces like the inner planets.
- Inner Planets: These planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars) are terrestrial, meaning they have solid, rocky surfaces.
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Size:
- Outer Planets: They are generally much larger than the inner planets, not smaller. For example, Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system.
- Inner Planets: These are comparatively smaller and denser.
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Atmosphere:
- Outer Planets: They have thick atmospheres made up of various gases, including hydrogen, helium, and methane.
- Inner Planets: Their atmospheres are thinner (with the exception of Earth) and mostly consist of heavier elements.
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Moons and Rings:
- Outer Planets: They typically have many moons and are accompanied by ring systems.
- Inner Planets: Most have few or no moons (Earth has one, Mars has two).
In summary, outer planets are primarily gas and liquid with no large solid surfaces, are larger than inner planets, have thick atmospheres, and possess many moons and rings.