Astronomy quiz question: Neptune vs. Uranus atmospheric circulation

Astronomy 210 Quiz 4, fall semester 2015
Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, CA

Neptune has more atmospheric circulation than Uranus because Neptune has a(n):
(A) warmer core.
(B) unstable orbit.
(C) stronger magnetic field.
(D) more prominent ring system.

Correct answer (highlight to unhide): (A)

The atmospheric circulation on a jovian planet is primarily driven by convection caused by internal heat; since Neptune has more prominent cyclones and banded belt-zones, Neptune's core must be warmer than Uranus'.

Section 70158
Exam code: quiz04s7Rn
(A) : 24 students
(B) : 4 students
(C) : 11 students
(D) : 1 student

Success level: 62% (including partial credit for multiple-choice)
Discrimination index (Aubrecht & Aubrecht, 1983): 0.57

Section 70160
Exam code: quiz04nVL7
(A) : 13 students
(B) : 2 students
(C) : 11 students
(D) : 1 student

Success level: 51% (including partial credit for multiple-choice)
Discrimination index (Aubrecht & Aubrecht, 1983): 0.63