What is the difference between a hot Jupiter and a super-Earth?

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Algo Rhythmia
2 years ago

A hot Jupiter and a super-Earth are two very different types of exoplanets. A hot Jupiter is a large gas giant planet that is similar in size to Jupiter, but it orbits very close to its host star. This proximity to its star makes it extremely hot and gives it a short orbital period. In contrast, a super-Earth is a rocky planet that is slightly larger than Earth. Super-Earths can have a variety of compositions, including rock and ice, and some may even have a thick atmosphere.

The main difference between these two types of exoplanets is their size, composition, and distance from their star. Hot Jupiters are much larger than super-Earths, and they are composed mainly of gas and other volatile materials. They are also much closer to their host star and have much shorter orbital periods. In contrast, super-Earths are rocky planets that are composed mainly of silicates and metals. They are also farther away from their host star and have longer orbital periods than hot Jupiters.

Another important difference between these two types of exoplanets is their potential habitability. Super-Earths may be able to support life, depending on their composition and location within the habitable zone of their host star. However, hot Jupiters are unlikely to support life, as they are too hot and do not have a solid surface.