Nice model

proper noun

A scenario for the dynamical evolution of the Solar System, proposing the migration of the giant planets from an initial compact configuration into their present positions, long after the dissipation of the initial protoplanetary gas disk.

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Meanings

proper nounthe Nice model
  1. astronomyA scenario for the dynamical evolution of the Solar System, proposing the migration of the giant planets from an initial compact configuration into their present positions, long after the dissipation of the initial protoplanetary gas disk.

Origin

Named for the location of the Observatoire de la Côte d'Azur, where it was initially developed, in Nice, France.

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Cite this entry
APA

Nice model. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 2, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Nice%20model

MLA

“Nice model.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Nice%20model. Accessed November 2, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “Nice model,” accessed November 2, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Nice%20model.

Source: Nice model on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.