Which planet is regarded as the coldest planet in the solar system because it has the lowest recorded atmospheric temperatures among all the major planets?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Uranus

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question is a basic astronomy and general science question that asks which planet is considered the coldest in the solar system. Competitive exams often test such facts because they build fundamental awareness about our solar system, including temperature patterns and unique features of each planet.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The question is about the coldest planet, that is, the planet with the lowest atmospheric temperatures.
  • Four options are given: Venus, Jupiter, Uranus, and Pluto.
  • Even though Pluto used to be classified as a planet, it is now treated as a dwarf planet in modern astronomy.
  • Candidates must know which body among the listed major planets has the lowest recorded temperature in its atmosphere.


Concept / Approach:
The core concept is understanding the temperature distribution in the solar system. Venus is extremely hot because of a strong greenhouse effect. Jupiter is a gas giant with internal heat and is not the coldest. Uranus and Neptune are both very cold outer planets, but Uranus has the lowest recorded minimum temperature, making it the coldest among the major planets. Pluto, though very cold, is a dwarf planet and not usually the expected answer in standard planetary lists.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Eliminate Venus because it is known as one of the hottest planets due to its dense carbon dioxide atmosphere.Step 2: Eliminate Jupiter because it has considerable internal heat and higher atmospheric temperatures than the coldest planets.Step 3: Compare Uranus and Pluto, remembering that Uranus has the lowest measured atmospheric temperature among the major planets.Step 4: Select Uranus as the correct answer since most standard general knowledge sources treat Uranus as the coldest planet.


Verification / Alternative check:
Many reference books and competitive exam guides specifically state that Uranus is the coldest planet. While Neptune is also very cold, Uranus records slightly lower minimum temperatures, mainly because of its unusual internal heat characteristics.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: Venus is the hottest planet, not the coldest, because of its runaway greenhouse effect.
Option B: Jupiter is a gas giant with high internal heat and is not at the low temperature extreme.
Option D: Pluto is extremely cold but is classified as a dwarf planet and is not referred to as the coldest planet in standard exam oriented material.


Common Pitfalls:
A common error is to pick Pluto because candidates remember that it is very far from the Sun. Another mistake is confusion between Uranus and Neptune. Relying on up to date general science sources resolves this confusion.


Final Answer:
The coldest planet in the solar system is Uranus.

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