Composition of planets vs. moons

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the composition of planets and moons in the Solar System, specifically comparing the ratios of gas planets to terrestrial planets and gas moons to terrestrial moons. The scope includes conceptual exploration of planetary and satellite composition.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the existence of "gas moons," suggesting that such a classification may not be applicable.
  • Another participant asserts a ratio of gas planets to terrestrial planets as 1:1 and proposes a ratio of gas moons to terrestrial moons as approximately 165:3, indicating a perceived lack of correlation.
  • A subsequent post clarifies that the term "gas moons" was intended to refer to moons that may have liquid components, rather than being gaseous themselves.
  • Another participant claims that all moons in the Solar System are believed to be rocky, although some may have thin oceans above their rocky surfaces.
  • A light-hearted remark is made, expressing a general sentiment without contributing to the technical discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the classification of moons, with differing views on the existence and nature of "gas moons" and the composition of moons in general.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the definitions of "gas moons" and "terrestrial moons," as well as the criteria for classifying moons based on their composition.

Loren Booda
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In our Solar System, how does the ratio of gas planets to terrestrial planets compare with that of gas moons to terrestrial moons?
 
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Hi Loren Booda! :smile:

Surely there are no "gas moons"? :confused:
 
Well gas planets to terrestrial planets is obviously 1:1 and gas moons (i.e moons around gas planets, tim) to terrestrial moons is like 165:3.

There appears to be no correlation at all. Oh well.
 
Kracatoan said:
Well gas planets to terrestrial planets is obviously 1:1 and gas moons (i.e moons around gas planets, tim) to terrestrial moons is like 165:3.

There appears to be no correlation at all. Oh well.

Sorry. Are there no liquid moons? That is basically what I meant by "gas moons."
 
I believe all solar system moons are believed to be rocky.

That includes a few that have thin oceans above the rocky surface.
 
God bless us, every one!
 

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