What are the gas giants in our solar system?

The gas giants in our solar system consist of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. These planets are characterized by their large sizes and gaseous compositions, primarily made up of hydrogen and helium, with other elements contributing to their atmospheres. Unlike terrestrial planets, which have solid surfaces, gas giants are known for their thick atmospheres and lack of a well-defined solid ground.

Jupiter and Saturn are often referred to as the "true" gas giants due to their massive sizes and predominantly gaseous nature, while Uranus and Neptune are often categorized as ice giants because they have a higher proportion of water, ammonia, and methane ice in their compositions. This classification highlights the differences in the formation and structure of these planetary bodies compared to terrestrial planets like Earth, Mars, Venus, and Mercury, which are composed mostly of rocks and metals and have solid surfaces.

Understanding the defining characteristics of gas giants helps clarify the structure and diversity of our solar system, making them a significant focus of study in planetary science.