Planet Formation by Concurrent Collapse

TL;DR

This paper proposes a novel 'concurrent collapse' hypothesis where planets form simultaneously with stars through gravitational collapse, offering solutions to issues in traditional planet formation theories.

Contribution

It introduces the 'concurrent collapse' model as an alternative to dust aggregation, explaining several observed phenomena in star and planet formation.

Findings

Provides a new explanation for FU Orionis outbursts

Accounts for eccentric exoplanet orbits

Explains presence of chondrules in the solar system

Abstract

After reviewing the difficulties faced by the conventional theory of planet formation (based upon the aggregation of microscopic dust particles), we describe an alternative hypothesis. We propose that planets form by gravitational collapse at the same time as the star about which they orbit. This 'concurrent collapse' hypothesis avoids theoretical difficulties associated with the conventional model and suggests satisfying explanations for various poorly understood phenomena. We introduce new explanations for FU Orionis outbursts seen in young stars, the discovery of exoplanets with eccentric orbits and the existence of small rocky objects such as chondrules in the solar system.