Mathematics – Probability
Scientific paper
Mar 2012
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2012icar..218..448v&link_type=abstract
Icarus, Volume 218, Issue 1, p. 448-458.
Mathematics
Probability
Scientific paper
The number of observed Halley-type comets is hundreds of times less than predicted by models (Levison, H.F., Dones, L., Duncan, M.J. [2001]. Astron. J. 121, 2253-2267). In this paper we investigate the impact of collisions with planetesimals on the evolution of Halley-type comets. First we compute the dynamical evolution of a sub-set of 21 comets using the MERCURY integrator package over 100 Myr. The dynamical lifetime is determined to be of the order of 105-106 years in agreement with previous work. The collisional probability of Halley-type comets colliding with known asteroids, a simulated population of Kuiper-belt objects, and planets, is calculated using a modified, Öpik-based collision code. Our results show that the catastrophic disruption of the cometary nucleus has a very low probability of occurring, and disruption through cumulative minor impacts is concluded to be negligible. The dust mantle formed from ejected material falling back to the comet's surface is calculated to be less than a few centimeters thick, which is insignificant compared to the mantle formed by volatile depletion, while planetary encounters were found to be a negligible disruption mechanism.
Jeffers Sandra V.
van der Helm E.
No associations
LandOfFree
Dynamical and collisional evolution of Halley-type comets 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 Dynamical and collisional evolution of Halley-type comets, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Dynamical and collisional evolution of Halley-type comets will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1560737