Ask AI: what is the process by which a planet becomes zoned with heavy materials near its center and lighter materials near its surface?

The process by which a planet becomes zoned with heavy materials near its center and lighter materials near its surface is known as planetary differentiation. This process takes place over millions of years and involves the separation of materials based on density. The densest materials will sink towards the center of the planet, while the lighter materials will rise closer to the surface. This process is a result of the planet's interior heating up and melting, allowing the materials to separate by their density.