Year: 2010
Type: article
Abstract: The two current models for giant planet formation are core accretion and disk instability. We discuss the core masses and overall planetary enrichment in heavy elements predicted by the two formation models, and show that both models could lead to a large range of final compositions. For example, both can form giant planets with nearly stellar compositions. However, low-mass giant planets, enriched in heavy elements compared to their host stars, are more easily explained by the core accretion model. The final structure of the planets, i.e., the distribution of heavy elements, is not firmly constrained in either formation model.
Language: English
Topic: Astro and Planetary Science
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W1998105518