Question

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

a) They lost these gases due to volcanic activity.
b) They never had hydrogen and helium to begin with.
c) Solar winds blew away lighter gases.
d) They absorbed these gases into their cores.

Answer 1

The terrestrial planets lack hydrogen and helium in their atmospheres due to several factors such as never having these gases to begin with and solar winds blowing away lighter gases.

Step-by-step explanation:

Also known as a telluric or rocky planet, a terrestrial planet is a celestial body that is composed primarily of silicate rocks or metals and has a solid surface. This distinguishes them from gas giants, which are primarily composed of gases like hydrogen and helium, water, and some heavier elements in various states.

The terrestrial planets lack hydrogen and helium in their atmospheres due to a combination of factors. First, the terrestrial planets never had hydrogen and helium to begin with. Additionally, solar winds blew away lighter gases from their atmospheres. Lastly, the materials composing these planets were depleted in volatile materials, resulting in the absence of hydrogen and helium.