Planetary Rings and Other Astrophysical Disks

This chapter explores the physics shared by planetary rings and the various disks that populate the Universe. It begins with an observational overview, ranging from protoplanetary disks to spiral galaxies, and then compares and contrasts these astrophysical disks with the rings of the Solar System. Emphasis is placed on fundamental physics and dynamics, and how research into the two classes of object connects. Topics covered include disk formation, accretion, collisional processes, waves, instabilities, and satellite-disk interactions.