Dynamical evolution of comets and the problem of cometary fading
| ISSN: |
1573-0794
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| Keywords: |
Comets ; dynamics ; fading problem
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| Source: |
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
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| Topics: |
Geosciences
Physics
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| Notes: |
Abstract Possibilities to explain the observed 1/a-distribution are discussed in the light of improved understanding of the dynamical evolution of long-period comets. It appears that the ‘fading problem’ applies both to single-injection and continuous-injection models. Although uncertainties due to nongravitational effects do not allow detailed results to be drawn from the observed 1/a-distribution at small perihelion distance q, that for q ≳ 1.5 AU shows that a constant fading probability cannot explain all the features of the observed distribution. Assuming that comets can reappear following a period of fading, values for the assumed constant fading and renewal probabilities, and the total cometary flux have been estimated for q 〉 1.5 AU.
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| Type of Medium: |
Electronic Resource
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| URL: |