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Formation of Saturn's spokesThe theoretical requirements of the Goertz and Morfill (1983) model of the formation of spokes in the rings of Saturn are analyzed. Consideration is given to model predictions of dust particle size distribution, the optical depth of the spokes, and the radial speed of spoke evolution. It is shown that the electrostatic levitation of singly charged dust particles would be sufficient to cause the spokes to form. The maximum formation time for spokes of more than 10,000 km radial length is estimated to be less than five minutes. Observations of the scattering properties of the spokes showed general agreement with the theoretical calculations.
Document ID
19850049666
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Goertz, C. K.
(Iowa, University Iowa City, IA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1984
Publication Information
Publication: Advances in Space Research
Volume: 4
Issue: 9 19
ISSN: 0273-1177
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
85A31817
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGL-16-001-043
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSF ATM-81-11126
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-364
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7632
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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