What specific orbital characteristic distinguishes Uranus among the Ice Giants?
Answer
It tilts significantly on its side as it orbits the Sun.
Uranus is noted for having a highly unusual rotational orientation when compared to other planets in the solar system. Specifically, it orbits the Sun while tilted nearly completely onto its side. This extreme axial tilt results in highly unusual seasonal variations. Although its fundamental layering—a rocky core surrounded by a mantle of compressed ices—mirrors that of Neptune, this unique orientation is a key distinguishing feature highlighted in the comparison of the Ice Giants.
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