Protoplanetary Disks

A protoplanetary disk is a rotating disk of gas and dust around a young star. Within the disk, gas and dust, which are tiny solid particles, can collide and stick together, gradually growing into larger objects known as planetesimals. These planetesimals can further collide and accumulate to form planets. 

The chemical composition of the disk can be influenced by factors like disk temperature, density, and radiation. By studying these interactions, insights can be gained into the transport of material within the disk. Other valuable insights come from the investigation of the chemical processes and reactions occurring in protoplanetary disks, such as the formation and destruction mechanisms of different molecules, including gas-phase reactions and surface chemistry on dust grains. Understanding the chemical evolution in these disks helps to determine the origins of complex organic molecules and their potential role in the formation of life.