Protoplanets are small celestial objects that are the size of a moon or a bit bigger. They are small planets, like an even smaller version of a dwarf planet. Astronomers believe that these objects form during the creation of a solar system.

What is the difference between a protoplanet and planet?

A Protoplanet is basically a planet (Dwarf or normal) in the making. The difference is that a Protoplanet doesn't have an almost spherical shape due to insufficient gravity which relates to its size. ... So to summarize a Protoplanet is basically a smaller version of a Dwarf Planet.

Is Earth a protoplanet?

According to the giant impact hypothesis the Moon formed from a colossal impact of a hypothetical protoplanet called Theia with Earth, early in the Solar System's history. ... Kuiper-belt dwarf planets have also been referred to as protoplanets.