Dense planetary rings and the viscous overstability

Details Dense planetary rings and the viscous overstability Dense planetary rings and the viscous overstability

2008-03-28

arxiv.org/abs/0803.4123v1

Icarus (2008), 195/2, 725-751

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

Accepted in Icarus; 58 pages; 15 figures

Scientific paper

10.1016/j.icarus.2008.02.001

This paper examines the onset of the viscous overstability in dense particulate rings. First, we formulate a dense gas kinetic theory that is applicable to the Saturnian system. Our model is essentially that of Araki and Tremaine (1986), which we show can be both simplified and generalised. Second, we put this model to work computing the equilibrium properties of dense planetary rings, which we subsequently compare with the results of N-body simulations, namely those of Salo (1991). Finally, we present the linear stability analyses of these equilibrium states, and derive criteria for the onset of viscous overstability in the self-gravitating and non-self-gravitating cases. These are framed in terms of particle size, orbital frequency, optical depth, and the parameters of the collision law. Our results compare favourably with the simulations of Salo et al. (2001). The accuracy and practicality of the continuum model we develop encourages its general use in future investigations of nonlinear phenomena.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Dense planetary rings and the viscous overstability 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 Dense planetary rings and the viscous overstability, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Dense planetary rings and the viscous overstability will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-174087