Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics – Solar and Stellar Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2010-02-09
Sanz-Forcada et al. (2010), A&A 511, L8
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
Solar and Stellar Astrophysics
A&A 511, L8 (2010). 4 pages, 3 figures, 1 online table (included). Language edited; corrected a wrong unit conversion (g/s ->
Scientific paper
10.1051/0004-6361/200913670
Context: According to theory, high-energy emission from the coronae of cool stars can severely erode the atmospheres of orbiting planets. No observational tests of the long term effects of erosion have yet been made. Aims: To analyze the current distribution of planetary mass with X-ray irradiation of the atmospheres in order to make an observational assessment of the effects of erosion by coronal radiation. Methods: We study a large sample of planet-hosting stars with XMM-Newton, Chandra and ROSAT; make a careful identification of X-ray counterparts; and fit their spectra to make accurately measurements of the stellar X-ray flux. Results: The distribution of the planetary masses with X-ray flux suggests that erosion has taken place: most surviving massive planets, (M_p sin i >1.5 M_J), have been exposed to lower accumulated irradiation. Heavy erosion during the initial stages of stellar evolution is followed by a phase of much weaker erosion. A line dividing these two phases could be present, showing a strong dependence on planet mass. Although a larger sample will be required to establish a well-defined erosion line, the distribution found is very suggestive. Conclusions: The distribution of planetary mass with X-ray flux is consistent with a scenario in which planet atmospheres have suffered the effects of erosion by coronal X-ray and EUV emission. The erosion line is an observational constraint to models of atmospheric erosion.
Eiroa Carlos
Garcia-Alvarez David
Micela Giuseppina
Pollock A. M. T.
Ribas Ignasi
No associations
LandOfFree
A scenario of planet erosion by coronal radiation 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 A scenario of planet erosion by coronal radiation, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and A scenario of planet erosion by coronal radiation will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-124763