Chapter 12: Problem 58

Suppose that Saturn were somehow moved to an orbit around the Sun with semimajor axis \(1 \mathrm{AU}\), the same as the Earth's. Discuss what long- term effects this would have on the planet and its rings.

Short Answer

Expert verified

Moving Saturn to an orbit with a semimajor axis of 1 AU would likely cause it to become warmer and more oblate, with potential changes in its atmosphere and the disintegration of its rings over time.

Step by step solution

Understand the effects of a new orbit

Moving to an orbit at 1 AU from the Sun would result in Saturn receiving more sunlight than it does in its current position. Crucially, this not only means the planet would be warmer and experience higher radiation levels, but also that there would be greater gravitational force acting upon it from the Sun.

Analyze the effects on the planet

The increase in sunlight would cause the planet to heat up, which could result in changes in the gas giant’s atmosphere, potentially causing it to lose some of its methane. Furthermore, the greater gravitational pull would affect Saturn's shape, making it more oblate (flattened at the poles and widened at the equator).

Discuss the effects on Saturn's rings

Saturn's rings are composed of particles of ice, dust, and rock. The increased sunlight and warmth could cause the ice particles in the rings to sublimate, which means they would change from solid to gas, potentially leading to the disintegration of the rings over time.

Summarize the long term effects

In summary, the long-term effects of Saturn moving to an orbit with a semimajor axis of 1 AU would be a warmer and possibly more oblate planet with a changed atmosphere, and potentially disintegrated rings.

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Suppose that Saturn were somehow moved to an orbit around the Sun with semimajor axis \(1 \mathrm{AU}\), the same as the Earth's. Discuss what long- term effects this would have on the planet and its rings.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand the effects of a new orbit

Analyze the effects on the planet

Discuss the effects on Saturn's rings

Summarize the long term effects

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