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Magnetic reversals of Jupiter and SaturnThe possibility that the gas-giant planets Jupiter and Saturn undergo solar-type magnetic reversals is examined using dynamo theory and radiotelescope data on decametriic emissions from Jupiter. Possible values are found for the effects of the fluctuating velocity field, the magnetic diffusivity, and change in the rotation rate of a dynamo over a characteristic length. The radio emissions from Jupiter decreased in intensity from 1961-72 and rose steadily to the end of 1978, which could have been caused by a change in the Jovian magnetic field. Since Jupiter may have a small rocky core embedded in metallic hydrogen which comprises 75 percent of the radius of the planet, the planetary magnetic field may extend into the cores of its satellites. The dynamo characteristics, like those of Saturn, would be chaotic, although quasi-periodic reversals could occur over intervals on the order of centuries instead of decades such as with the sun and much longer periods such as with the earth.
Document ID
19870022809
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Hathaway, D. H.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Dessler, A. J.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Date Acquired
August 13, 2013
Publication Date
July 1, 1986
Publication Information
Publication: Icarus
Volume: 67
ISSN: 0019-1035
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
87A10083
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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