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The Birth of Planetary SystemsAn overview of current theories of star and planet formation is presented. These models are based upon observations of the Solar System and of young stars and their environments. They predict that rocky planets should form around most single stars, although it is possible that in some cases such planets are lost to orbital decay within the protoplanetary disk. The frequency of formation of gas giant planets is more difficult to predict theoretically. Terrestrial planets are believed to grow via pairwise accretion until the spacing of planetary orbits becomes large enough that the configuration is stable for the age of the system. Giant planets begin their growth like terrestrial planets, but they become massive enough that they are able to accumulate substantial amounts of gas before the protoplanetary disk dissipates.
Document ID
20070011432
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Other
Authors
Lissaur, Jack L.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 23, 2013
Publication Date
September 16, 1997
Subject Category
Space Sciences (General)
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 344-30-50-01
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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