Which planet is least dense among the following planets ?

Question

Accepted Answer

Saturn is the least dense planet among the given options, and here's why:

1. **Saturn's Density**: Saturn is known for its remarkably low density. It has an average density of about 0.687 grams per cubic centimeter, which is less than the density of water (1 gram per cubic centimeter). This means that if there were a body of water large enough, Saturn would float in it. The low density of Saturn is primarily due to its composition, which is mostly hydrogen and helium, both of which are light gases.

2. **Why Mercury is Incorrect**: Mercury is a terrestrial planet with a much higher density than Saturn. Its density is about 5.43 grams per cubic centimeter, which is significantly higher due to its metallic core and rocky composition. This makes Mercury much denser than Saturn.

3. **Why Mars is Incorrect**: Mars, another terrestrial planet, has a density of about 3.93 grams per cubic centimeter. Like Mercury, Mars is composed of heavier elements such as iron and silicate minerals, contributing to its higher density compared to Saturn.

4. **Why Jupiter is Incorrect**: Although Jupiter is also a gas giant like Saturn, it is denser, with an average density of about 1.33 grams per cubic centimeter. Jupiter's greater mass and gravitational compression result in a higher density than Saturn.

In conclusion, Saturn's composition of light gases and its resulting low density make it the least dense planet among the options provided. This supports Option 1 as the correct answer.