A ring system, in the context of planets, refers to a collection of particles, such as rocks, dust, and ice, that orbit around a planet in a flat, disc-like structure. These rings are typically composed of numerous individual ringlets or bands, each consisting of countless smaller particles ranging in size from micrometers to meters.

Ring systems are most commonly associated with gas giant planets, such as Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune, although smaller ring systems have also been observed around some smaller celestial bodies, like certain asteroids and moons.

The formation of ring systems is thought to be a result of various processes. One prominent theory suggests that they may have originated from the debris left over from the formation of the planet itself or from the destruction of a moon or other celestial object due to tidal forces or impacts. Another possibility is that the rings formed from the accretion of small particles in orbit around the planet.

The appearance and characteristics of ring systems can vary significantly between planets. Saturn's rings are the most extensive and well-known, consisting of thousands of individual ringlets made primarily of ice particles. They range in size from tiny grains to large chunks several meters in diameter. Jupiter's rings, on the other hand, are much fainter and composed mainly of small dust particles.

Ring systems are incredibly dynamic structures. The particles in the rings continuously interact with each other, influenced by gravitational forces, collisions, and the planet's gravitational field. This interaction can cause the particles to spread out or clump together, creating gaps, waves, and other intricate patterns within the rings.