What is the difference between Belt and Zone in Astronomy?

Belts represent the regions of the surface or atmosphere of the planets Jupiter and Saturn that are characterized by the darker bands. Belts are formed at the lower level of the atmosphere of Jupiter, and they are also characterized by low pressure. Belts can be equated to the regions of the Earth's atmosphere that are characterized by low pressure. Due to the rapid rotation of the planet Jupiter, these darker bands usually encircle the planet.

On the other hand, zones represent the regions of the surface or atmosphere of some planets that are known as gas giants that are characterized by lighter bands. These planets include Jupiter, Uranus, Saturn, and Neptune. Unlike belts that are present at a lower altitude, zones are formed at higher altitudes. As you would expect, these regions are characterized by high pressure. Invariably, we can say their major difference is their degree of intensity and latitude.

A belt in astronomy is commonly defined as hot air rising and is connected with the gas giant’s atmosphere, they are known to be dark in color, and they are expressive. Since they are darker, they will give us a more in-depth look, not the atmosphere, the darker the belt is. A zone in astronomy, on the other hand, is typically defined as cold air falling or sinking and is also associated with the gas giant’s atmosphere.

In the simplest way possible, they are described as light in color and because of this fundamental characteristic. It does not, however, allow us to look deeper into the atmosphere that a darker color can usually do.