Physics
Scientific paper
Nov 2007
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2007georl..3421201w&link_type=abstract
Geophysical Research Letters, Volume 34, Issue 21, CiteID L21201
Physics
10
Planetary Sciences: Solar System Objects: Mercury, Planetary Sciences: Solid Surface Planets: Interiors (8147), Planetary Sciences: Solid Surface Planets: Magnetic Fields And Magnetism, Geomagnetism And Paleomagnetism: Dynamo: Theories And Simulations, Tectonophysics: Planetary Interiors (5430, 5724, 6024)
Scientific paper
The presence of the global magnetic field of Mercury has implications for the interior structure of the planet and its thermal evolution. We use a thermal evolution model to explore the conditions under which excess entropy is available to drive a convective dynamo. The current state of the core is strongly affected by its sulfur concentration and the viscosity of the overlying mantle. A present-day dynamo is difficult to achieve. The minimum rate of entropy production required to drive a dynamo is attained in only the most optimistic models, and requires present-day mantle convection. An additional entropy source such as the addition of a radiogenic heat source in the core increases the probability of a present-day dynamo. Given the uncertainty, more specific characterization of the planet's interior and magnetic field is required to alleviate ambiguities in the original Mariner 10 observations.
Aharonson Oded
Nimmo Francis
Williams Jean-Pierre
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