Disk instability is a process in which regions of a protoplanetary disk become gravitationally unstable and collapse to form planetary bodies. This mechanism is considered an alternative to core accretion for the formation of gas giant planets, particularly in environments where rapid formation is necessary.

Disk Instability

Disk instability

A protoplanetary disk is a rotating circumstellar disk of dense gas and dust surrounding a young newly formed star, where planets, asteroids, and other celestial bodies can form. These disks are crucial for understanding the early stages of planetary system formation and the processes that lead to the diverse architectures of planetary systems observed today.

protoplanetary disk

gravitationally unstable

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