From grains to planetesimals

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

42 Scopus citations

Abstract

This pedagogical review covers an unsolved problem in the theory of protoplanetary disks: the growth of dust grains into planetesimals, solids at least a kilometer in size. I summarize timescale constraints imposed on planetesimal formation by circumstellar disk observations, analysis of meteorites, and aerodynamic radial migration. The infall of meter-sized solids in a hundred years is the most stringent constraint. I review proposed mechanisms for planetesimal formation. Collisional coagulation models are informed by laboratory studies of microgravity collisions. The gravitational collapse (or Safronov-Goldreich-Ward) hypothesis involves detailed study of the interaction between solid particles and turbulent gas. I cover the basics of aerodynamic drag in protoplanetary disks, including radial drift and vertical sedimentation. I describe various mechanisms for particle concentration in gas disks - including turbulent pressure maxima, drag instabilities and long-lived anticylonic vortices. I derive a general result for the minimum size for a vortex to trap particles in a sub-Keplerian disk. Recent numerical simulations demonstrate that particle clumping in turbulent protoplanetary disks can trigger gravitational collapse. I discuss several outstanding issues in the field.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationPhysics and Astrophysics of Planetary Systems
Pages187-207
Number of pages21
DOIs
StatePublished - 2010
Externally publishedYes
EventPhysics and Astrophysics of Planetary Systems - Chamonix, France
Duration: Feb 18 2008Feb 29 2008

Publication series

NameEAS Publications Series
Volume41
ISSN (Print)1633-4760
ISSN (Electronic)1638-1963

Other

OtherPhysics and Astrophysics of Planetary Systems
Country/TerritoryFrance
CityChamonix
Period2/18/082/29/08

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • General Engineering
  • Space and Planetary Science

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