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How is Jupiter made up?

Published in Jupiter Composition 1 min read

Jupiter is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, making it a giant gas planet.

According to WorldAtlas, Jupiter's composition is overwhelmingly dominated by these two light elements.

Primary Components

The vast majority of Jupiter's mass and volume comes from hydrogen and helium.

  • Hydrogen: Makes up roughly 90% of Jupiter's total composition.
  • Helium: Accounts for nearly all of the remaining 10%.

These gases are compressed under immense pressure towards the planet's core, transitioning through different states.

Minor Components

Elements and compounds heavier than hydrogen and helium are present in only a minuscule amount of what Jupiter is made of. While small in proportion, these heavier elements are thought to include substances like methane, ammonia, water vapor, and other trace gases, which contribute to the complex atmospheric phenomena observed on the planet.

In summary, Jupiter's makeup is a striking example of a celestial body dominated by the two lightest and most abundant elements in the universe.

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