Formation of Rocky Planets, Illustration
As a rocky planet forms, the planet-forming material gathers in a process known as 'accretion'. It grows larger in size, and increases in temperature and pressure at its core. The energy from this initial process causes the planet's elements to heat up and melt. Layers form and separate; heavier elements sink to the bottom, and lighter elements float to the top. This material then separates into layers as it cools, which is known as 'differentiation'. A fully formed planet slowly emerges, with a crust, mantle, and a solid iron core.
Size: 5760px × 3240px
Location:
Photo credit: © Science History Images / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: accretion, art, artwork, core, crust, differentiation, drawing, formation, geologic, geological, geologically, geology, heat, illustration, interior, layer, mantle, planet, pressure, rock, structure
