Physics – Fluid Dynamics
Scientific paper
May 1981
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1981a%26a....98...45w&link_type=abstract
Astronomy and Astrophysics, vol. 98, no. 1, May 1981, p. 45-49.
Physics
Fluid Dynamics
20
Comet Nuclei, Fluid Flow, Free Molecular Flow, Gas Jets, Outgassing, Sublimation, Collision Parameters, Gas Density, Jet Thrust, Comets, Outgassing, Density, Pressure, Rotation, Models, Flow, Water, Comet Nuclei, Condensation, Sublimation, Particles, Flux, Collisions, Surface, Fluid Dynamics
Scientific paper
The characteristics of free molecular and fluid flows from a kilometric-sized snowball sublimating in solar radiation are discussed. The net back-thrust is more than 50% lower than hypothesized by Whipple (1977) and reconcilable with derived nongravitational forces only if mean comet densities are low (under 0.7 g/cu cm). The densities on the sunward face are high enough to ensure collisional subsonic flow, but the density and pressure on the shaded side for probable comet rotation rates are much lower. Models with approximately radial outgassing are invalid; instead, a pressure-driven flow to the shaded side, where condensation partially compensates for radiative heat losses is postulated. The reduced net jet-thrust from such sublimation-condensation flows implies still lower limits on comet masses and densities.
MacPherson A. K.
Wallis Max K.
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