Saturn, as the sixth planet in our solar system, has become an object of beauty (due to its majestic rings) for every amateur astronomer.
Another reason for its beauty is Saturn's appearance.
Planets become darker and cooler over time, but not this planet. Why?
Researches have found the explanation:
"Scientists have been wondering for years if Saturn was using an additional source of energy to look so bright but instead our calculations show that Saturn appears young because it can't cool down. Instead of heat being transported throughout the planet by large scale (convective) motions, as previously thought, it must be partly transferred by diffusion across different layers of gas [mostly He and H2] inside Saturn. These separate layers effectively insulate the planet and prevent heat from radiating out efficiently. This keeps Saturn warm and bright."
("Saturn's Youthful Appearance Explained" (04/30/2013), http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/201...131525.htm)
What planetary secrets will we discover tomorrow?
Another reason for its beauty is Saturn's appearance.
Planets become darker and cooler over time, but not this planet. Why?
Researches have found the explanation:
"Scientists have been wondering for years if Saturn was using an additional source of energy to look so bright but instead our calculations show that Saturn appears young because it can't cool down. Instead of heat being transported throughout the planet by large scale (convective) motions, as previously thought, it must be partly transferred by diffusion across different layers of gas [mostly He and H2] inside Saturn. These separate layers effectively insulate the planet and prevent heat from radiating out efficiently. This keeps Saturn warm and bright."
("Saturn's Youthful Appearance Explained" (04/30/2013), http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/201...131525.htm)
What planetary secrets will we discover tomorrow?
