Which term best describes the group of planets including Jupiter and Saturn?

Prepare for the Praxis Pennsylvania Grades 4–8 Core Assessment. Study using flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Success awaits!

The term that best describes the group of planets including Jupiter and Saturn is "gas giants." Gas giants are large planets that are primarily composed of hydrogen and helium and lack a solid surface. They are characterized by their significant atmospheres, which are thick and extend deep into the planets, making them different from the smaller, rocky planets found in the inner solar system.

In contrast, terrestrial planets, such as Earth and Mars, are solid and rocky, which signifies a different composition and physical structure. Dwarf planets, like Pluto, are smaller celestial bodies that do not clear their orbits of other debris, further distinguishing them from the larger gas giants. Rocky bodies refer to any solid celestial bodies made up of rock and metal, which typically applies to terrestrial planets rather than gas giants. Therefore, "gas giants" is the accurate descriptor for planets like Jupiter and Saturn, reflecting their larger size and gaseous composition.

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