The average temperature on Jupiter is a frigid -166°F (-110°C).
Jupiter's Temperature Explained
While we often think of planets near the Sun as being scorching hot, Jupiter, despite being the largest planet in our solar system, maintains a very cold average temperature. This is due to several factors:
- Distance from the Sun: Jupiter is significantly farther from the Sun than Earth, averaging about 484 million miles (778 million kilometers) away. This immense distance means it receives much less solar radiation.
- Atmospheric Composition: Jupiter's atmosphere is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, which aren't very effective at trapping heat.
- Internal Heat: While Jupiter does emit some heat from its interior, this internal heat doesn't significantly raise its overall average temperature.
Key Points
Here’s a quick recap of Jupiter's temperature:
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Temperature | -166°F (-110°C) |
| Distance from Sun | 484 million miles (778 million kilometers) |
Conclusion
Jupiter's extremely cold average temperature is a result of its vast distance from the Sun, its atmospheric composition, and the balance of internal and external heat.
