What is the most important factor in determining whether or not a planet will be rocky like terrestrial planets or gaseous like giant planets?
A) the time at which the planet forms
B) the planet's radius
C) the planet's distance from the Sun
D) whether the planet has moons
E) the planet's internal temperature

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The planet's distance from the Sun is crucial because it influences the temperature and the materials that can condense during planet formation. Closer to the Sun, where it is hotter, rocky materials condense, forming terrestrial planets. Farther from the Sun, where it is cooler, gases and ices can condense, forming gas giants.

What Is the Most Important Factor in Determining Whether or Not