The Planet HAT- P- 32b Has More Than Twice the Radius

question 55

Multiple Choice

The planet HAT- P- 32b has more than twice the radius of Jupiter, yet is only the same mass. It orbits its star more than a factor of ten closer than Mercury's orbit around the Sun. Which is the most plausible explanation for its large size?

• A)The hydrogen and helium gas compressed under their own gravity.
• B)The mass measurement is mistaken, and it is actually about 10 times more massive than Jupiter.
• C)It is made of elements other than hydrogen and helium which do not compress under their own gravity.
• D)Planets that are close to a star are heated up and therefore larger.