Mass planetary formation calculation?

In summary, the question is asking for the mass of volatile material (specifically H and He) that was not accreted by the Earth. The mass accreted by the Earth is given as 7e23 kg and the table provides the relative composition of the Sun and Solar nebula. The question is asking for the comparison between the mass of missing volatiles and the actual mass of the Earth. The question can be further reworded to ask for the mass of initial nebula that contained enough metals to create the Earth.
  • #1
black_hole
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Homework Statement



Compute the mass of volatile material (specifically just H and He) not accreted by the Earth. Assume the mass accreted by the Earth is 7e23 kg. How does the mass of the missing volatiles compare with the actual mass of the Earth? Use the following table:

Principal Constituents of Sun and Solar nebula:
(Relative to number of atoms in the Sun)
Hydrogen 92.1 %
Helium 7.8 %
Oxygen 0.061 %
Carbon 0.030 %
Nitrogen 0.0084 %
Iron 0.0037 %

I'm confused what the questions want me to do? What assumptions am I supposed to be making? What do these things have in common?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
I suppose the question can be reworded to something like "In what mass of the initial nebula there was enough metals (in astrophysics sense) to create Earth".
 

Related to Mass planetary formation calculation?

1. How is mass planetary formation calculated?

Mass planetary formation is calculated using mathematical equations and simulations that take into account factors such as the mass and composition of the protoplanetary disk, the accretion and collisions of particles, and the influence of the star's gravity. These calculations can also be adjusted to account for different scenarios, such as the presence of gas giants or the formation of multiple planets.

2. What data is needed for mass planetary formation calculation?

To calculate the mass of a planet forming in a protoplanetary disk, scientists need information about the disk's composition, temperature, and size, as well as the mass and type of the central star. They also need to consider factors such as the rate of accretion and the presence of any planetary cores.

3. How accurate are mass planetary formation calculations?

Mass planetary formation calculations are constantly being refined and improved, but they are still subject to uncertainties and limitations. These calculations are based on our current understanding of planetary formation processes, which is constantly evolving. Therefore, the accuracy of these calculations can vary depending on the available data and the assumptions made in the simulations.

4. Can mass planetary formation calculations predict the formation of specific planets?

While mass planetary formation calculations can provide valuable insights into the general processes of planetary formation, they cannot accurately predict the formation of specific planets. The formation of a planet is influenced by a wide range of factors, and small variations in these factors can lead to significantly different outcomes.

5. How do mass planetary formation calculations contribute to our understanding of the universe?

Mass planetary formation calculations play a crucial role in helping us understand the formation and evolution of our own solar system, as well as other planetary systems in the universe. By simulating different scenarios and comparing them to observations, scientists can gain insights into the processes that shape planetary systems and the conditions necessary for the formation of habitable worlds.

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