Three models of dust layers on cometary nuclei

Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics

Scientific paper

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Astronomical Models, Comet Nuclei, Cosmic Dust, Radiative Heat Transfer, Flow Velocity, Gas Flow, Gravitation, Interstellar Gas, Mathematical Models, Perihelions, Surface Reactions, Surface Temperature

Scientific paper

A previously developed 'loose lattice' model, describing the balance between gravity and the outward thrust of escaping gases on the particles of a surface mantle, is extended to show that short-period comets which exhibit secular decline in activity may do so owing to a buildup of an insulating layer. Further, a second model - the heavy mantle model - is developed in which gas velocity and its attendant effects are seen to depend on level within a dust layer; a technique for predicting the number and size distribution of grains entrained is proposed. Finally, a third model, the 'fluidized bed' model is proposed; according to this model a third type of dust layer, an agitated maelstrom of incompletely entrained particles, is probably present at some stages of a comet's life, particularly near perihelion for dusty comets.

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