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The Birth of Planetary SystemsModels of planet formation and of the orbital stability of planetary systems are described and used to discuss possible characteristics of undiscovered planetary systems. Modern theories of star and planet formation, which are based upon observations of the Solar System and of young stars and their environments, predict that rocky planets should form in orbit about most single stars. It is uncertain whether or not gas giant planet formation is common, because most protoplanetary disks may dissipate before solid planetary cores can grow large- enough to gravitationally trap substantial quantities of gas. Another potential hazard to planetary systems is radial decay of planetary orbits resulting from interactions with material within the disk. Planets more massive than Earth have the potential to decay the fastest, and may be able to sweep up smaller planets in their path. The implications of the giant planets found in recent radial velocity searches for the abundances of habitable planets are discussed.
Document ID
20070003479
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Lissauer, Jack J.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 24, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1997
Subject Category
Space Sciences (General)
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 44-20-50-01
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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