EarthRef.org Reference Database (ERR)
Development and Maintenance by the EarthRef.org Database Team

Detailed Reference Information
Lorenz et al. 1995
Lorenz, R.D., Lunine, J.I., Grier, J.A. and Fisher, M.A. (1995). Prediction of aeolian features on planets: Application to Titan paleoclimatology. Journal of Geophysical Research 100: doi: 10.1029/95JE02708. issn: 0148-0227.

We examine the conditions necessary to form aeolian features on planets such as ripples and dunes. Specifically, we compute saltation and suspension speeds for the terrestrial planets, Triton, Titan, and two possible primordial Titan atmospheres, and compare these with theoretical estimates of friction speeds. We examine the availability of sediments and the mass transport rates needed to form aeolian features on Titan, and compare likely feature dimensions with the resolution of instruments on the Cassini mission to evaluate the detectability of such features. A novel element is the consideration of a Weibull wind speed distribution, adding a probabilistic element to the formation and destruction of dunes. We find dunes unlikely to form in any Titan atmospheres, suggesting that dunelike bedforms are only likely to be found in areas that were once submerged by liquids. ¿ American Geophysical Union 1995

BACKGROUND DATA FILES

Abstract

Keywords
Planetology, Solar System Objects, Comparative planetology, Planetology, Solid Surface Planets, Surface materials and properties, Meteorology and Atmospheric Dynamics, Planetary meteorology, Planetology, Solar System Objects, Saturnian satellites
Journal
Journal of Geophysical Research
http://www.agu.org/journals/jb/
Publisher
American Geophysical Union
2000 Florida Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009-1277
USA
1-202-462-6900
1-202-328-0566
service@agu.org
Click to clear formClick to return to previous pageClick to submit