A gravitational kinetic theory for planetesimals

Details A gravitational kinetic theory for planetesimals A gravitational kinetic theory for planetesimals

Oct 1980

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1980icar...44..154s&link_type=abstract

Icarus, vol. 44, Oct. 1980, p. 154-171.

Computer Science

41

Boltzmann Distribution, Fokker-Planck Equation, Gravitation Theory, Kinetic Theory, Planetary Evolution, Protoplanets, Angular Momentum, Cosmic Plasma, Encounters, Energy Conservation, Inelastic Collisions, Momentum Transfer, Orbital Velocity, Random Processes, Viscosity

Scientific paper

An analytical theory is developed for the velocity evolution of nonaccreting planetesimal populations, based on the Boltzmann and Fokker-Planck equations. Adapting Shkarofsky's calculation of plasma viscosities, the rate of increase in random velocities due to gravitational encounters between planetesimals of equal mass is found to be one-third to one-half Safronov's result. Comparison with Wetherill's numerical experiments suggests that the Fokker-Planck equation underestimates the effectiveness of encounters and that Safronov's value is approximately correct. For populations of nonuniform sizes, the Fokker-Planck equation indicates an efficient redistribution of energy from the largest bodies to the smaller ones. By conserving angular momentum, the rate of radial spreading of orbits is also derived.

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