accretion theory

Accretion theory describes how celestial bodies form and grow by gravitationally attracting and collecting surrounding matter, such as gas, dust, or smaller objects. Over time, particles collide and stick together, gradually building larger structures like planets, stars, or black holes. This process occurs in various cosmic environments, with matter spiraling inward due to gravity, leading to increasing mass and, often, energy release. Accretion explains phenomena like the growth of young stars, the formation of planetary systems, and the feeding of black holes at galaxy centers.