About 4.5 billion years ago, the Earth was formed from dust and gas surrounding the young Sun. This process involved the collision and merging of small particles, creating a hot, molten planet. Over time, the surface cooled, leading to the formation of a solid crust. During this period, the early Earth was bombarded by asteroids and comets, which contributed to the development of its atmosphere and oceans. These impacts played a crucial role in shaping the planet's environment, setting the stage for the emergence of life millions of years later.