Physics
Scientific paper
Sep 1982
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1982georl...9.1069h&link_type=abstract
Geophysical Research Letters, vol. 9, Sept. 1982, p. 1069-1071.
Physics
18
Cosmic Dust, Current Density, Ring Currents, Saturn Atmosphere, Saturn Rings, Space Plasmas, Electric Charge, Planetary Magnetic Fields, Planetology, Plasma-Electromagnetic Interaction
Scientific paper
The thin F-ring of Saturn, which is well within the corotating portion of the Saturnian magnetosphere, has been shown by Voyager 1 and 2 observations to be largely composed of small dust grains. Mendis et al. (1982) have argued that with plausible values of the ambient plasma density and temperature near the F-ring, these grains will be charged to around -40 volts. Mendis et al. have shown that within the corotating portion of the magnetosphere such negatively charged grains can move in circular orbits in the equatorial plane. In connection with a relative motion between the negatively charged grains and the corotating positive ions, the F-ring constitutes a ring current. The present investigation has the objective to calculate this current and to show that it would significantly alter the magnetospheric dipole field in the vicinity of the ring. A current of approximately 12,0000 A is obtained. The change in the magnetic field produced by the current could be measured by a spacecraft approaching to within 100 km above or below the F-ring plane.
Hill Richard J.
Mendis Asoka D.
No associations
LandOfFree
On the dust ring current of Saturn's F-ring 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 On the dust ring current of Saturn's F-ring, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and On the dust ring current of Saturn's F-ring will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1261127