Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astronomy
Scientific paper
Jan 1976
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1976natur.259..293f&link_type=abstract
Nature, vol. 259, Jan. 29, 1976, p. 293, 294. NASA-supported research.
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astronomy
8
Dynamo Theory, Mercury (Planet), Planetary Evolution, Planetary Magnetic Fields, Planetary Structure, Astronomical Models, Fusion (Melting), Latent Heat, Planetary Temperature, Temperature Profiles
Scientific paper
The question of whether or not Mercury could contain a molten metallic core is investigated by studying the possible thermal evolution of a metallic core in that planet. The calculations involve the solution of the equation of heat conduction for a spherically symmetric body with internal heat sources, modifications to take account of the latent heat of fusion as well as the redistribution of radioactive heat sources as a consequence of melting, the terrestrial Fe/U ratio, and a Th/U ratio of 3.7. The temperature profile predicted by the calculations for a period of 4.6 billion years indicates that the inner 1400 km of the core would now be solid while the outer 500 km would be molten. It is emphasized that this result is a direct consequence of a discontinuity in melting temperatures at the core-mantle boundary and that although a dynamo is possible, it would have to be driven mechanically rather than by thermal convection.
Cassen Patrick M.
Fricker Peter E.
Reynolds Ray T.
Summers Audrey L.
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