Physics
Scientific paper
Sep 1985
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1985natur.317..238l&link_type=abstract
Nature (ISSN 0028-0836), vol. 317, Sept. 19, 1985, p. 238-240.
Physics
36
Gas Spectroscopy, Satellite Surfaces, Triton, Volatility, Infrared Spectroscopy, Methane, Nitrogen, Solidified Gases, Neptune, Satellites, Triton, Surface, Volatiles, Distribution, Infrared, Physical Properties, Spectrophotometry, Diffusion, Wavelengths, Methane, Atmosphere, Crystalline, Composition, Nitrogen, Condensates, Equilibrium, Solids, Liquids, Models, Seasonal Variations, Thermodynamics, Transport
Scientific paper
The most recent analyses of infrared spectrophotometric studies of Neptune's satellite Triton concluded that both condensed methane and nitrogen are present. It was also concluded that the most likely surface configuration is a liquid nitrogen (N2) "ocean" with dry areas of solid methane (CH4), and perhaps some exposed fine-grained water frost (H2O). The authors assess several possible configurations for volatiles on Triton. They conclude that the simplest volatile configuration which best satisfies the constraints with the least number of ad hoc assumptions is N2 and CH4 both in solid forms, perhaps partly as a microscopic mixture, but more probably as a disequilibrium assemblage, non-uniformly distributed. Thermodynamic equilibrium is then limited by seasonal transport and the finite diffusion time of CH4 in crystalline N2.
Lunine Jonathan I.
Stevenson Jacob D.
No associations
LandOfFree
Physical state of volatiles on the surface of triton 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 Physical state of volatiles on the surface of triton, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Physical state of volatiles on the surface of triton will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-802041