Characterization of dust particles captured in mean-motion resonances with planets
Authors:
M. Kocifaj
Image & caption:
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Image caption::
A non-spherical particle with rotation axis characterized by Euler angles Theta_0 and Phi_0 that satisfies the condition of resonant capture with Neptune. The low refractive index used in the numerical simulation can be considered to be for dirty ice.
Description:
The trapping of dust grains in resonances with a planet can be affected by electromagnetic radiation. The interaction of solar radiation with a non-spherical particle depends on its size, shape, chemistry and orientation relative to the incident sunbeam. It has been shown that some microphysical properties of dust particles captured in a mean-motion resonance with Neptune can be deduced based on the peak values of the radiation pressure components. In particular, it has been demonstrated that chances for resonant capture are generally low for particles with sizes smaller than 4 μm, and almost negligible for sub-micrometer-sized grains. This is due to increased optical sensitivity of these particles to the dominant wavelengths in the solar spectrum. The best candidates for resonant trapping appear to be particles with sizes 2-4 μm and particles with elevated values of the refractive index. It means that ices can scarcely survive in resonant capture when compared to other materials.
Reference:
Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, 422, 1665-1673 (2012)
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