Solar System Formation

Front

What theory describes the formation of our solar system?

Back

The solar nebular theory explains that the solar system formed from a rotating disk of gas and dust, where gravity caused the material to clump together.

Front

What is the fuel for the sun's energy?

Back

The fusion of hydrogen atoms into helium is the process that powers the sun, releasing energy in the form of light and heat.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Front

What two forces work together when a nebula collapses to begin solar system formation?

Back

Gravity and inertia are the two forces that work together to initiate the collapse of a nebula, leading to the formation of stars and planets.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS2-4

Front

When did our solar system begin?

Back

Our solar system began around 5 billion years ago when an ancient star exploded, creating the materials necessary for solar system formation.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-6

Front

What term describes planets that are forming through accretion?

Back

Planetesimals are the small bodies that form through the process of accretion, eventually leading to the creation of planets.

Front

What is a nebula?

Back

A nebula is a giant cloud of gas and dust in space, which can be the birthplace of stars and planets.

Front

What role does gravity play in solar system formation?

Back

Gravity pulls together gas and dust in a nebula, causing it to collapse and form stars and planets.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS2-4

Front

What is accretion in the context of solar system formation?

Back

Accretion is the process by which particles stick together to form larger bodies, such as planets, from smaller particles.

Front

What is the difference between terrestrial and gas giant planets?

Back

Terrestrial planets are rocky and solid (like Earth), while gas giants are composed mostly of gases and lack a solid surface (like Jupiter).

Front

What is the significance of the solar nebula in the formation of the solar system?

Back

The solar nebula is the cloud of gas and dust from which the solar system formed, providing the materials for the sun and planets.