Why are all the planets round?
Planets are basically round because of the way that gravity works – if you imagine all of a planet’s mass concentrated at its core, then it’s pulling with equal force in every direction. Provided the gravity is strong enough and the material the planet’s made from is relatively weak (or even molten), then all the planet’s rock and other material will arrange itself in the most efficient way so that every part of the surface is at more or less the same distance from the centre. Often, planetary interiors even separate into layer of different density, like Earth’s own core, mantle and crust.
Earth’s internal layers have separated by density under the uniform inward pull of gravity, producing round shells
Ever wondered how long it would take you to walk, drive or fly to each planet in our solar system? Find the answer with our interstellar travel guide in Issue 66 of How It Works magazine, available to order in print or download onto your digital device.
For more fascinating articles about space, check out…
ESA’s Philae comet landing in photos
European Space Agency unveils plans for 3D-printed homes on the Moon
