The solar system is an exception in the Universe

2004/10/01 Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Astronomia

Although many planets are outside the solar system, astronomers do not believe they form a solar system. It seems that they have been formed in a very different way, so it is possible that the solar system is unique in the Universe.

According to the most widespread theory to explain the genesis of planets, planets like Earth are formed by joining the dust around a star. Therefore, first the rocks are formed that, grouping them gradually, constitute the core of the planet. Below is the gaseous atmosphere in the area. Gaseous planets similar to Jupiter form outside the system at lower temperatures.

However, some 110 exoplanets discovered so far do not confirm this theory. In general, these planets are larger than Jupiter and are very close to their star, closer to Earth, and even closer to Mercury. In addition, they have a totally elliptical and non-circular orbit.

Consequently, astronomers believe that the solar system is special and that other theories must be sought to explain the formation of planets. However, many more observations have to be made to have solid effects.