Planetary Differentiation/Earth's Layers

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Physical Composition

Back

The state of matter of the rocks within the earth: Solid (rigid), Liquid, Gas, Plastic-like.

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Chemical Composition

Back

The elements that are held within the rocks of the earth's layers. Examples include O, Si, Fe, Mg, etc.

Front

Radioactive Decay

Back

The breakdown of a radioactive element, releasing particles and energy.

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Density

Back

The amount of matter (mass) in a given unit of volume. This property tells us how tightly matter is packed in a substance.

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Accretion

Back

Growth in size or increase in amount.

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Planet

Back

A large body in space that orbits a star and does not produce light of its own.

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Planetary Differentiation

Back

A process in which more dense materials of a planet sink to the center, while less dense materials stay on the surface.

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Nebula

Back

A large cloud of dust and gas in space.

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Star

Back

A ball of hot gas, primarily hydrogen and helium, that undergoes nuclear fusion.

Front

Gaseous Planet

Back

Planets made up of gases and no true surface. Examples include Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus.