What Role Do Protoplanetary Disks Play in the Evolution of Planetary Systems?

Protoplanetary disks play a crucial role in the evolution of planetary systems. They dictate the initial conditions for planet formation and influence the final architecture of the planetary system. The disk's properties, such as its mass, composition, and dynamics, can significantly affect the types and distribution of planets that form. Additionally, interactions between the disk and forming planets can lead to planetary migration, altering their orbits and potentially leading to complex systems like our own Solar System.