Tidal instability in exoplanetary systems evolution

D. Cébron, C. Moutou, M. Le Bars, P. Le Gal, R. Farès

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

11 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

A new element is proposed to play a role in the evolution of extrasolar planetary systems: the tidal (or elliptical) instability. It comes from a parametric resonance and takes place in any rotating fluid whose streamlines are (even slightly) elliptically deformed. Based on theoretical, experimental and numerical works, we estimate the growth rate of the instability for hot-jupiter systems, when the rotation period of the star is known. We present the physical process, its application to stars, and preliminary results obtained on a few dozen systems, summarized in the form of a stability diagram. Most of the systems are trapped in the so-called "forbidden zone", where the instability cannot grow. In some systems, the tidal instability is able to grow, at short timescales compared to the system evolution. Implications are discussed in the framework of misaligned transiting systems, as the rotational axis of the star would be unstable in systems where this elliptical instability grows.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationDetection and Dynamics of Transiting Exoplanets
EditorsR. Diaz, C. Moutou, F. Bouchy
PublisherEDP Sciences
ISBN (Electronic)9782759806195
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 16 2011
Externally publishedYes
Event2010 International Conference on Transiting Planets: Detection and Dynamics - St. Michel l'Observatoire, France
Duration: Aug 23 2010Aug 27 2010

Publication series

NameEPJ Web of Conferences
Volume11
ISSN (Print)2101-6275
ISSN (Electronic)2100-014X

Conference

Conference2010 International Conference on Transiting Planets: Detection and Dynamics
Country/TerritoryFrance
CitySt. Michel l'Observatoire
Period8/23/108/27/10

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Physics and Astronomy

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