Differentiation
- Process of sorting major components of a planet by density
- Heavy elements sink
- Light elements float to the top
Differentiation in gas giant planet
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Likely have a molten, rocky core (made up of the heaviest elements)
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Thick atmosphere exerts pressure on lower layers
- Compresses middle layers of gas to an exotic state
- Matter can exist as a liquid, solid, and gas
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Outer atmosphere layered with cold gas clouds