proto-Earth

Proto-Earth refers to the early stage of Earth's formation approximately 4.5 billion years ago, shortly after the solar system's birth. It originated from a swirling cloud of dust, rock, and gas that clustered under gravity. As particles collided and stuck together, they gradually built up a larger body. During this period, proto-Earth was extremely hot and likely had a molten surface, with intense collisions leading to the formation of Earth's core and mantle. Over time, it cooled and differentiated into the layers we see today, evolving into the mature planet we inhabit.