The myriad of bizarre exoplanetary system configurations discovered to date – vastly different to our own solar system – represent a stark challenge to our understanding of planetary system formation. To understand how these systems formed, it is crucial to understand the problem of planetary motion. This thesis explores the subtle but profound impact that planetary structure has on planetary system dynamics. By treating planets as more than just points, we can write compelling origin stories for many of the most bizarre systems in the cosmos. This presentation walks through advancements in numerical techniques, the fascinating interplay between planetary spin and orbital evolution, as well as a new paradigm of planetary motion that accounts for the evolution of planetary structure.
