On Planetary Rings as Sources and Sinks of Magnetospheric Plasmas
Abstract
The presence of satellite and ring systems in the magnetospheres of Jupiter, Saturn and Uranus introduces interesting new physical effects affecting the general dynamics and compositions of these magnetospheres. Besides acting as a sink for the magnetospheric particles via solid-body absorption, the satellites and rings could also emit neutral and ionized gas into the magnetospheres. In the case of the Saturnian rings, because of their especially broad structure and close proximity to the planet, strong exospheric and ionospheric couplings can also take place. Several observed features are discussed.
- Publication:
-
Planetary Rings
- Pub Date:
- 1984
- Bibcode:
- 1984plri.coll..575I
- Keywords:
-
- Cosmic Plasma;
- Earth Magnetosphere;
- Jupiter Rings;
- Saturn Rings;
- Sinks;
- Uranus Rings;
- Atmospheric Composition;
- Jupiter Atmosphere;
- Mass Transfer;
- Natural Satellites;
- Planetary Ionospheres;
- Saturn Atmosphere;
- Uranus Atmosphere;
- Lunar and Planetary Exploration