What causes Jupiter's distinctive stripes and swirls?
Jupiter's distinctive stripes and swirls are caused by its complex atmospheric dynamics, including jet streams and turbulent storms. The planet's rapid rotation and internal heat generate strong zonal winds, creating visible bands of clouds. These bands are due to variations in thickness and height of ammonia ice clouds, coupled with different chemical compositions and temperatures in the atmosphere. The swirling patterns are often storm systems, the most famous being the Great Red Spot, a gigantic storm persisting for centuries.