Planetary Core Formation
The formation of planetary cores is a critical process in the formation of planets. Planetesimals can accrete to form cores, which are then surrounded by a mantle of rock and metal.
Core Accretion Model
The core accretion model is the most widely accepted model of planetary core formation. It involves the accretion of small particles to form a solid core, which is then surrounded by a mantle of rock and metal.
Core Differentiation
Core differentiation is the process by which a planetesimal differentiates into its component parts, such as a core, mantle, and crust.
Gravitational Collapse
Gravitational collapse is the process by which a large particle in the solar nebula collapses under its own gravity, forming a planetesimal.