Computer Science
Scientific paper
Sep 1979
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1979natur.281..202c&link_type=abstract
Nature, vol. 281, Sept. 20, 1979, p. 202-204.
Computer Science
12
Perturbation Theory, Planetary Structure, Saturn Rings, Kepler Laws, Natural Satellites, Orbital Elements, Particle Motion, Satellite Perturbation, Thickness, Saturn, Rings, Structure, Models, Observations, Perturbations, Thickness, Particles, Collisions, Gravity, Satellites, Size
Scientific paper
An explanation for the vertical structure and thickness of Saturn's rings compatible with observational data is presented. The model of the rings as being many particles thick is shown to be possible, with random particle motions preventing the complete flattening of the system and a gaussian distribution of particle density with vertical displacement. The model prediction of a maximum ring thickness of tens of meters, however, is in conflict with observations of ring thickness of at least 0.8 km at ring-plane passage. It is shown that perturbations to ring particle orbits caused by the sun and Saturn's large satellites may produce long- and short-period coherent vertical ring displacements and a nonlinear displacement of the ring plane from the equatorial plane with radial distance, leading to an apparent edge-on thickness of a few hundred meters.
Burns Joseph A.
Cuzzi Jeff N.
Durisen Richard H.
Hamill P. M.
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