K.H. Dodds , J.F.J. Bryson , J.A. Neufeld , R.J. Harrison
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Paleomagnetic studies of meteorites over the past two decades have revealed that the cores of multiple meteorite parent bodies, including those of certain chondritic groups, generated dynamo fields as they crystallised. However, uncertainties in the direction and mode of core solidification in asteroid-sized bodies have meant using the timings and durations of these fields to constrain parent body properties, such as size, is challenging. Here, we use updated equations of state and liquidus relationships for Fe-FeS liquids at low pressures to calculate the locations at which solids form in these cores. We perform these calculations for core-mantle boundary (CMB) pressures from 0–2 GPa, and Fe-FeS liquid concentrations on the iron-rich side of the eutectic, as well as two values of iron thermal expansivity that cover the measured uncertainties in this parameter, and adiabatic and conductive cooling of these cores. We predict inward core crystallisation from the CMB in asteroids due to their low pressures regardless of the uncertainties in other key core parameters. However, due to low internal pressures in these cores, remelting of any iron snow, as proposed to generate Ganymede’s present-day field, may be unlikely as the cores are approximately isothermal. Therefore a different mode of inward core solidification is possibly required to explain compositionally-driven dynamo action in asteroids. Additionally, we identify possible regimes at higher pressures in which crystallisation can occur concurrently at the CMB and the centre.
期刊介绍:
Icarus is devoted to the publication of original contributions in the field of Solar System studies. Manuscripts reporting the results of new research - observational, experimental, or theoretical - concerning the astronomy, geology, meteorology, physics, chemistry, biology, and other scientific aspects of our Solar System or extrasolar systems are welcome. The journal generally does not publish papers devoted exclusively to the Sun, the Earth, celestial mechanics, meteoritics, or astrophysics. Icarus does not publish papers that provide "improved" versions of Bode''s law, or other numerical relations, without a sound physical basis. Icarus does not publish meeting announcements or general notices. Reviews, historical papers, and manuscripts describing spacecraft instrumentation may be considered, but only with prior approval of the editor. An entire issue of the journal is occasionally devoted to a single subject, usually arising from a conference on the same topic. The language of publication is English. American or British usage is accepted, but not a mixture of these.