What sets the temperature of the pocket of gas in a protoplanetary disk?
A) Its distance from the forming star
B) How much kinetic energy was converted to heat
C) How much radiation from the forming star shines on the gas
D) All of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All of the above factors play a role in determining the temperature of the pocket of gas in a protoplanetary disk. The distance from the forming star determines how much radiation the gas receives, which can heat it up. The kinetic energy of particles in the gas can also be converted into heat, causing the temperature to rise. Thus, all of these factors contribute to the overall temperature of the gas in the disk.

What Sets the Temperature of the Pocket of Gas in a Protoplanetary