The trans-Neptunian object size distribution at small sizes

Details The trans-Neptunian object size distribution at small sizes The trans-Neptunian object size distribution at small sizes

Jun 2009

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2009a%26a...500..909g&link_type=abstract

Astronomy and Astrophysics, Volume 500, Issue 2, 2009, pp.909-916

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

5

Kuiper Belt, Solar System: Formation, Astrochemistry, Methods: Numerical

Scientific paper

Aims: The aim of this work is to estimate the size distribution of small Trans-Neptunian objects. Methods: We simulate the irradiation and collisional processes affecting the surface of a Trans-Neptunian object for the first time using as a constraint the peculiar crystalline to amorphous water ice ratio observed on (136108) 2003 EL61. Results: We find that the size distribution changes its exponent from q_0=4.2 at larger sizes to q_1=2.40±0.3 at the smaller ones, with a break radius of r_1=35±15 km. If this size distribution is applied to studying the collisional surface evolution of (136108) 2003 EL61, we find that the object must be covered by a thin ice crust of ≈0.12 cm, while the original composition of the object is still present at 1.61 cm or more below the surface. This result is not affected by a collision with a large projectile that occurred by chance more than 109 yr ago since after a short time the mean value obtained for the crystalline to amorphous water ice ratio is indistinguishable from the one obtained without a collision with a large projectile. Since the simulations are not sensitive to the effects of very small projectiles (r_p<10{-}30 m), it is possible that the exponent of the size distribution for these very small objects changes again, approaching a Donhanyi's size distribution.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

The trans-Neptunian object size distribution at small sizes does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with The trans-Neptunian object size distribution at small sizes, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The trans-Neptunian object size distribution at small sizes will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-775294