The Iron Rain World Is Unlike Anything You've Seen Before

The video explores the fascinating world of exoplanets, focusing on WASP 76 B, a planet where it rains molten iron. It discusses the challenges of detecting exoplanets, particularly those with small orbits close to their stars. The video explains how astronomers determine the physical characteristics of exoplanets and their parent stars, using WASP 76 B as an example. Spectroscopy reveals the presence of iron in the atmosphere, leading to the phenomenon of iron rain. The video concludes with a look at future missions that aim to uncover more about the universe.

What unique weather phenomenon occurs on the exoplanet WASP 76 B?

• Molten iron rain

• Diamond snow

• Sulfuric acid rain

• Methane storms

Why are exoplanets with small orbits easier to detect?

• They are larger in size

• They are closer to Earth

• They have a shorter transit period

• They emit more light

What is the first step astronomers take to learn about an exoplanet's characteristics?

• Calculate the planet's orbit

• Analyze the planet's atmosphere

• Measure the planet's temperature

• Study the parent star's properties

What is the estimated temperature on the day side of WASP 76 B?

• 1500°C

• 2400°C

• 3000°C

• 1000°C

How do scientists determine the composition of an exoplanet's atmosphere?

• By analyzing the planet's orbit

• By measuring the planet's mass

• By observing the star's brightness

• Through spectroscopy

What happens to iron on the night side of WASP 76 B?

• It disappears completely

• It forms solid iron

• It condenses into raindrops

• It remains vaporized

What instrument was used to detect variations in WASP 76 B's atmosphere?

• James Webb Space Telescope

• Kepler Space Telescope

• ESPRESSO instrument on ESO's Very Large Telescope

• Hubble Space Telescope