|
Massive core in Jupiter predicted from first-principles simulations
B. Militzer, W.B. Hubbard, J. Vorberger, I. Tamblyn, and S.A. Bonev The Astrophysical Journal, 688, 1, L45-L48 (2008) This study employs first-principles simulations of hydrogen-helium mixtures to derive an equation of state for Jupiter's interior and predict its internal structure. The results indicate that Jupiter possesses a central core of 14-18 Earth masses of heavier elements, providing strong support for the core accretion model of giant planet formation. The authors find approximately 2 Earth masses of planetary ices distributed in the hydrogen-helium-rich mantle, consistent with atmospheric composition measurements from the 1995 Galileo Entry Probe mission. The study also presents evidence suggesting that interior differential rotation affects Jupiter's measured gravitational field, particularly the J4 gravity moment, reconciling theoretical predictions with observational constraints. |
