Home > Science > Space Exploration > Planets > Mercury
Earths formation
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Earths formation
Earths formation. Artwork of Earth forming in the early solar system. It is thought that the planets formed from a rotating disc of material that formed around, and at the same time as, the Sun (upper left), around 4.6 billion years ago. The rocky inner planets formed during a chaotic period when many protoplanets formed by gathering up surrounding material (such as the rocks seen) by gravitational attraction. Eventually, four planets (Mars, Earth, Venus and Mercury) survived, along with numerous asteroids. Earths Moon has not yet formed and meteorite impacts are seen on the still molten surface of the Earth
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6447287
© DETLEV VAN RAVENSWAAY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Accretion Asteroid Asteroids Birth Cosmology Early Formation Heavy Impact Lifeless Meteorite Meteorites Molten Planetary Planets Protoplanet Protoplanetary Rock Rocks Solar System Start Universe Young
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Planets
> Earth
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Planets
> Mars
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Planets
> Mercury
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Planets
> Venus
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Solar System
EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork titled "Earth's Formation" takes us back in time to the early days of our solar system. Around 4.6 billion years ago, a rotating disc of material formed around the young Sun, giving birth to our planets. In this chaotic period, protoplanets emerged by gathering surrounding rocks and debris through gravitational attraction. The image showcases Earth at its nascent stage, alongside three other surviving planets: Mars, Venus, and Mercury. These rocky inner planets endured the intense competition for resources during their formation. The molten surface of Earth is visible with meteorite impacts scattered across it – evidence of a violent past. Notably absent from this scene is Earth's Moon which had not yet formed at this point in history. As we gaze upon this artwork, we are reminded of the immense forces that shaped our planet and continue to shape our understanding of the universe. This illustration beautifully captures both the scientific knowledge and artistic interpretation behind Earth's origin story. It serves as a testament to humanity's curiosity about where we come from and how we fit into the vast expanse of space-time.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
