AFOQT Practice Test

Jupiter is recognized as the largest gas giant in our solar system. Its immense size is characterized by a diameter of approximately 86,881 miles (about 139,822 kilometers), making it more than eleven times that of Earth. Jupiter's mass is also staggering, accounting for more than 70% of the mass of all the planets in the solar system combined. This substantial mass leads to a strong gravitational pull, enabling it to maintain a vast array of moons and a prominent ring system, albeit less dense than those of Saturn. Additionally, Jupiter's composition primarily consists of hydrogen and helium, classified as a gas giant, which distinguishes it from the ice giants, Uranus and Neptune, which have larger proportions of water, ammonia, and methane. Understanding these characteristics helps clarify why Jupiter holds the title of the largest gas giant, as the other options represent significantly smaller planets in comparison.