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Neptune is the last of the jovian or outermost planets. From telescopes we see that
it has clouded bands and that there is a dark spot, similar to the dark red spot in Jupiter. It is 30 times farther
than the sun is from the earth. Because of this it makes it very hard for us to observe and analyze. Netpune was
named after the Roman god of sea. It is also larger than the earth. Its structure is similar to Uranus having ordinary
water surround by hydrogen and hydrogen rich compounds. It has a very low density meaning that is composed of light
atoms. It has a iron and rock core as it formed and it must have collected heavy elements such as silicon and iron.
The methane in Neptune's atmosphere causes its bluish color. Neptune may have convection currents which give rise
to the cloud belts which it forms. Also, Neptune's rapid spin of about 16 hours each rotation creates winds which
may lead to the cloud belts. Neptune's outer temperature is warmer than inside causing it to have minimal change
in temperature. The small temperature difference causes weak convection currents ultimately, being somewhat dull
in composition. Neptune, like all other outer planets has rings and moons. The rings are gathered around each other
in an arc-like formation. They are also very narrow and consist of particles which represent debris from moons.
Since they
have an arc like effect they have clumping shapes making scientists believe that the rings will be gone within
a million years. Neptune has six small moons around it, and two moons which are not as close to the orbit of Neptune.
Scientists are puzzled at the outer moon , Triton, because it has many distinct properties. For example, it is
the only known moon to have an atmosphere and be massive enough to retain gases. Volcanic debris is present along
with wrinkled terrain and geysers of nitrogen , ice, and carbon compounds.
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