📷 Image Credits: The Hindu
Why are planets spherical? This question has intrigued scientists for centuries and recently, researchers have made significant discoveries shedding light on this phenomenon. An artist’s illustration of a protoplanetary disc around a star showcases the process of planet formation where gravity causes parts of the disc to coalesce into spherical shapes. The explanation lies in the fundamental force of gravity, with large masses of planets and stars being compelled into a spherical shape. Moreover, the geometry of a sphere plays a crucial role as it is the most compact three-dimensional shape, minimizing surface area for a given volume.
Stars and planets, however, are actually oblate spheroids instead of perfect spheres. The rotation of these celestial bodies creates a centrifugal force that causes a bulge at the equator, making them slightly flattened. This dynamic interaction between gravity and rotation results in an oblate spheroid shape, impacting the distribution of mass across the planet.
Recent research from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has further delved into this phenomenon. Scientists at UCLan utilized computer simulations to model the formation of planets based on the theory of disk-instability. Their findings revealed that protoplanets, in their early stages, exhibit oblate spheroid shapes similar to ‘Smarties’. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the spherical nature of young planets, providing a new perspective on planetary formation.
Observational confirmation of these flattened shapes holds significant implications, offering insights into the mechanisms of planet formation. By studying the shapes of young planets and their growth into gas giants like Jupiter, researchers can unravel the mysteries of our cosmic neighborhood. The varying shapes of planets, influenced by factors such as rotation speed and gravitational forces, showcase the intricate balance in the universe’s design.
As we continue to explore the cosmos and uncover the secrets of planetary formation, the revelations about the spherical nature of celestial bodies open new avenues for scientific inquiry. The interplay between gravity, mass, and geometry guides the evolution of planets, shaping our understanding of the vast universe we inhabit.
