Early evolution of the terrestrial planets

Abstract

Research on the early evolution of the terrestrial planets in Japan is introduced in this paper. In the last decade, there was significant progress on the theory of the early evolution of the Earth and terrestrial planets. First, works related to the formation of proto-atmospheres, formation and structure of the solar-type atmosphere, dissipation of the solar-type atmosphere, formation and evolution of an impact-induced atmosphere and problem of rare gases are reviewed. Then, formation of the core, evolution of magma ocean, and formation of oceans are discussed. Finally, recent development of the subsequent evolution of the Earth's surface environment is introduced. © 1995, The Seismological Society of Japan, The Volcanological Society of Japan, The Geodetic Society of Japan. All rights reserved.