I WONDER - What Are Zonal Jets?

Gas giants like Jupiter and Saturn feature zonal jets, which are strong east-west winds in their atmospheres. These jets contribute to the planets' banded appearance and are caused by rapid rotation and internal heat. However, the exact mechanisms of their formation and stability remain under research.

What are zonal jets and where are they commonly found?

How do zonal jets contribute to the appearance of gas giants like Jupiter and Saturn?

What factors contribute to the formation of zonal jets on gas giants?

Explain the relationship between a planet's rotation and the presence of zonal jets.

What ongoing research topics are related to zonal jets?