About Shaping the Planets

What are the processes that shape the planets?
There are four basic processes that shape the planets in our solar system. Select the links below to learn more!

Volcanism
Eruption of molten rock onto the surface of a planet

Tectonism
Faulting or folding or other deformation of the outer layer of a planet

Erosion
Wearing away of a planet's surface

Impact Cratering
Breakup of a planet's surface when a meteoroid hits

Last updated
February 23, 2005