Question 1:

What is the leading theory of planetary formation?

Explanation: The leading theory of planetary formation is the "Nebular Hypothesis." It proposes that planets form from the rotating disk of gas and dust, known as a protoplanetary disk, surrounding a young star.

Question 2:

What process describes the accumulation of solid particles into larger bodies during planetary formation?

Explanation: The process that describes the accumulation of solid particles into larger bodies during planetary formation is "Accretion." Small particles collide and stick together, gradually growing into planetesimals and ultimately forming planets.

Question 3:

Which of the following is NOT a mechanism for planetary growth?

Explanation: "Planetary collision" is not a mechanism for planetary growth. While collisions between planetesimals contribute to planetary growth, it is not considered a distinct mechanism but rather a part of the overall accretion process.

Question 4:

Which of the following factors plays a crucial role in determining the composition of a planet?

Explanation: The "Parent star's metallicity" plays a crucial role in determining the composition of a planet. The metallicity, or abundance of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium, in the protoplanetary disk affects the composition of the forming planets.

Question 5:

What is the process by which a planet differentiates into layers of different compositions?

Explanation: The process by which a planet differentiates into layers of different compositions is called "Differentiation." Due to gravitational and thermal processes, denser materials sink towards the center, forming a core, while lighter materials rise to the outer layers.