Why do the terrestrial planets lack hydrogen and helium in their atmospheres?

A. Hydrogen and helium were converted to other compounds as the planets formed.
B. Hydrogen and helium can't be retained because the planet masses are too small.
C. Hydrogen and helium were blown away by solar wind.
D. Hydrogen and helium are present in rings around the terrestrial planets.

Mostly, terrestrial planets (which are mainly made up of rocks) are usually smaller in size and therefore have lower mass, in comparison to gas planets. An example, in our solar system, is Saturn and Jupiter are bigger than Earth, Mercury and Venus. Due to their low mass, their gravitational pull is not strong enough to retain an atmosphere of very light gas such as hydrogen and helium. These terrestial planets can retain heavier gas such as carbon dioxide and oxygen.

mahima6824soni mahima6824soni · Answer 2 · 2022-02-05T06:26:14+01:00

The terrestrial planets lack hydrogen and helium in their atmospheres because hydrogen and helium were blown away by solar wind.

The correct option is (C).

Why it is difficult for terrestrial planets to retain hydrogen and helium?

Terrestrial planets have a solid planetary surface, which distinguishes them from larger gaseous worlds.

Terrestrial planets are nearest to the sun, so the temperature in these planets are high.

Due to high temperature, hydrogen, and helium gases are blown away.

Hydrogen and helium are very light gases, that's why always go upside away from surface.

Thus, option (C) solar winds blow away hydrogen and helium is correct.

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