EMERGENT-SIMPLE: Can Dynamical Regularity in Exoplanetary Systems Emerge from Basic Physical Constraints?

This work investigates whether the dynamical regularity observed in multi-planet exoplanetary systems can emerge solely from basic physical constraints, without invoking explicit resonance-favoring mechanisms. We present a minimalistic formation model incorporating only angular momentum conservation, Hill stability criteria, and stochastic formation processes. The model is evaluated through a triple-blind comparison between real exoplanetary systems, simulated systems generated by the minimal model, and fully random controls. Pre-registered statistical analyses assess proximity to Laplace resonances, global system stability, and configurational entropy. The results aim to establish the lower bound of complexity required to reproduce observed orbital architectures and to contribute a rigorous methodological framework for testing minimalistic hypotheses in planetary science.