Hot super-Earths do not owe their brightness to molten lava or cooled glass as formerly assumed: scientists

The video discusses rocket planets, particularly hot super Earths, which orbit close to their stars and have high reflectivity. New research suggests these planets reflect 40-50% of their star's light, compared to Earth's 30%. Laboratory experiments with basalt and feldspar indicate that lava accounts for only 10% of the light. Researchers speculate that the brightness may be due to metal-rich atmospheres and reflective clouds, rather than molten lava or cold glass.

What is a notable characteristic of some Earth-sized rocket planets?

• They have icy surfaces.

• They are extraordinarily bright.

• They orbit far from their suns.

• They have thick atmospheres.

According to the research, how much of their star's light do hot super-Earths reflect?

• 10% to 20%

• 20% to 30%

• 40% to 50%

• 60% to 70%

What substances did researchers melt to study light reflection?

• Marble and Slate

• Sandstone and Limestone

• Basalt and Feldspar

• Granite and Quartz

What do researchers speculate about the brightness of lava ocean planets?

• It is due to molten lava.

• It is due to cold glass.

• It is due to volcanic eruptions.

• It is due to metal-rich atmospheres and reflective clouds.

What was the previously assumed cause of brightness in lava ocean planets?

• Reflective clouds

• Metal-rich atmospheres

• Molten lava or cold glass

• Solar flares