Which planet spins the fastest?
Quick Answer
Jupiter spins the fastest, completing a full rotation in under 10 hours despite its huge size.
The Full Story
Jupiter, the largest planet in the Solar System, also spins the fastest, completing one rotation in just under 10 hours. Because it is so large β over 11 times the diameter of Earth β points on its equator are moving at about 45,000 kilometres per hour. This rapid spin flattens the planet noticeably at its poles and bulges it at the equator, and it helps drive the powerful jet streams that create Jupiters famous banded appearance and giant storms like the Great Red Spot. By contrast, Venus is the slowest, taking 243 Earth days to rotate once β longer than its year β and it spins backwards compared with most planets.
Key Facts
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Suggested video title for this topic:
"The Fastest-Spinning Planet β Why a Day on Jupiter Is Only 10 Hours"