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Statistical mechanics of Keplerian orbits

IV. Concluding remarks

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Abstract

Theoretical predictions agree with computer simulations at least for those collisional systems in which the restitution coefficient is independent of impact velocity. An uncertainty principle for the orbits restricts the validity of the theory and its predictions. Discussion of the whole theory and of computer simulations shows that a velocity-dependent restitution coefficient provides the only astronomically interesting applications of the collisional processes. The Saturnian and Uranian ring systems correspond very well to theoretical expectations if the restitution coefficient is of this type.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Aarne Karjalainen Observatory, University of Oulu, Finland

    K. A. Hämeen-Anttila

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  1. K. A. Hämeen-Anttila
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Hämeen-Anttila, K.A. Statistical mechanics of Keplerian orbits. Astrophys Space Sci 51, 429–437 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00644164

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00644164

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