Question

The spectrum of a hot Jupiter shows absorption bands due to the presence of water in the atmosphere of the planet. Why is it unlikely that we would observe liquid water on such a planet

a) High temperatures prevent water from condensing
b) Lack of hydrogen in the atmosphere
c) Intense magnetic fields
d) Presence of a thick cloud cover

Answer 1

It is unlikely to observe liquid water on a hot Jupiter due to high temperatures preventing condensation, the presence of a thick cloud cover, and a lack of hydrogen in the atmosphere.

Step-by-step explanation:

It is unlikely to observe liquid water on a hot Jupiter for several reasons:

1. High temperatures prevent water from condensing: Hot Jupiters are located close to their star, where temperatures are extremely high. These high temperatures prevent water from condensing into a liquid state. Instead, the water exists in the form of vapor or gas.
2. Presence of a thick cloud cover: Hot Jupiters have thick cloud cover in their atmosphere. These clouds can block our view of the planet's surface, making it difficult to observe any liquid water that may be present beneath the clouds.
3. Lack of hydrogen in the atmosphere: Hot Jupiters have a low concentration of hydrogen in their atmosphere, which is necessary for the formation and stability of liquid water. Without sufficient hydrogen, liquid water cannot exist.