Title: Mercury: Determination of Internal Structure and Evolution
Abstract:Introduction: One of the most enigmatic questions with regard to the formation of terrestrial planets is the origin of Mercury’s large bulk density (~5400 kg/m) [e.g., 1-4]. This high bulk density sug...Introduction: One of the most enigmatic questions with regard to the formation of terrestrial planets is the origin of Mercury’s large bulk density (~5400 kg/m) [e.g., 1-4]. This high bulk density suggests a larger metal:silicate ratio than observed in the other terrestrial planets. However, the bulk density of the planet alone does not uniquely constrain the composition; additional information is required. We model the internal structure of Mercury, giving particular attention to the core, in order to investigate the ability of anticipated future measurements of the planet’s normalized polar moment of inertia (C/MR) and ratio of the mantle moment of inertia to that of the planet (Cm/C) to constrain the planet’s structure and composition. Approach: Measurable quantities such as the values for a planet’s mass and moments of inertia are directly related to its internal density structure. Under the assumption of a spherically-symmetric planet these quantities are related by the following equations [e.g., 5]:Read More
Publication Year: 2004
Publication Date: 2004-03-01
Language: en
Type: article
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Cited By Count: 1
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