Nebular Theory

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What is the Nebular Theory?

Back

The Nebular Theory is a model that explains the formation of the solar system, suggesting that it formed from a rotating cloud of gas and dust (nebula) that collapsed under its own gravity.

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What is a protoplanet?

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A protoplanet is a large body of matter in orbit around the sun or another star that is in the process of forming into a planet.

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What are planetesimals?

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Planetesimals are small bodies from which a planet originated in the early stages of solar system formation.

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What is the significance of planets rotating counter-clockwise?

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Most planets rotate counter-clockwise due to the conservation of angular momentum from the original rotating nebula.

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What does it mean for planets to orbit the sun in the same plane?

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It means that the orbits of the planets are aligned along a flat disc-like structure, which is a key piece of evidence supporting the Nebular Theory.

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What is half-life in the context of radioactive decay?

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Half-life is the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay.

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If a sample has 6.25% of the parent isotope left, how many half-lives have passed?

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Four half-lives have passed.

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What is the role of gravity in the Nebular Theory?

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Gravity causes the nebula to collapse and form denser regions that eventually become stars and planets.

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What evidence supports the Nebular Theory?

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Evidence includes the counter-clockwise rotation of planets, their orbits in the same plane, and the presence of protoplanets and planetesimals.

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What is the difference between a protoplanet and a planetesimal?

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Protoplanets are larger bodies that are forming into planets, while planetesimals are smaller building blocks that combine to form protoplanets.