Energy sources for triton's geyser-like plumes
Four geyser-like plumes were discovered near Triton's south pole in areas now in permanent sunlight. Because Triton's southern hemisphere is nearing a maximum summer solstice, insolation as a driver or a trigger for Triton's geyser-like plumes is an attractive hypothesis. Trapping of solar radiation in a translucent, low-conductivity surface layer (in a solid-state greenhouse), which is subsequently released in the form of latent heat of sublimation, could provide the required energy. Both the classical solid-state greenhouse consisting of exponentially absorbed insolation in a gray, translucent layer of solid nitrogen, and the "super" greenhouse consisting of a relatively transparent solid-nitrogen layer over an opaque, absorbing layer are plausible candidates. Geothermal heat may also play a part if assisted by the added energy input of seasonal cycles of insolation.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 1990 |
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Title | Energy sources for triton's geyser-like plumes |
DOI | 10.1126/science.250.4979.431 |
Authors | R. H. Brown, Randolph L. Kirk, T. V. Johnson, Laurence A. Soderblom |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Science |
Index ID | 70015941 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Astrogeology Science Center |