Mercury’s composition

Definition

Mercury’s composition primarily consists of a large metallic core and a silicate mantle and crust. It has a high density, indicating a significant proportion of heavy elements such as iron.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mercury's core makes up about 85% of its radius, which is unusually large compared to other terrestrial planets.
2. The planet's surface is composed mainly of silicate rocks and dust.
3. Mercury has a very thin atmosphere composed mostly of oxygen, sodium, hydrogen, helium, and potassium.
4. The high density of Mercury suggests it contains a larger percentage of metal than Earth or Venus.
5. Data from the MESSENGER spacecraft indicates that Mercury's surface contains sulfur in higher concentrations than expected.

Review Questions

• What percentage of Mercury's radius is made up by its core?
• What are the primary components of Mercury’s thin atmosphere?
• How does the density of Mercury compare to other terrestrial planets?

Related terms

Terrestrial Planets: Rocky planets with solid surfaces, including Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars.

MESSENGER spacecraft: A NASA mission that orbited Mercury and provided detailed information about its composition and geology.

Silicate Minerals: Minerals composed primarily of silicon and oxygen, found abundantly in the crusts of terrestrial planets.