06/28/2023
By Robert Pierzynski Jr
Degree: Master's
Defense Date: Thursday, July 6, 2023
Time: Noon to 1 p.m.
Location: This will be a virtual defense via Zoom. Those interested in attending should contact MS candidate Robert_Pierzynski@student.uml.edu at least 24 hours prior to the defense to request access to the meeting.
Committee:
- Committee Chair Ofer Cohen, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Physics & Applied Physics, UMass Lowell
- Timothy Cook, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Physics & Applied Physics, UMass Lowell
- Andrew Rogers, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Physics & Applied Physics, UMass Lowell
Abstract:
The four outer planets of the Solar System have been observed to emit more radiant energy than they receive from the Sun. This problem, known as the excess energy or excess radiation problem, is one of solar system astrophysics’ greatest mysteries. Many theories revolve around properties of the planets' interiors, of which we cannot directly observe on non-solid planetary bodies. We instead use theory and modeling to estimate the internal mechanisms inside the planets. The two gas giants, Jupiter and Saturn, have been studied at length observationally due to multiple probes being sent to those two planets. The two outermost ice giant planets, Uranus and Neptune, have not been as thoroughly studied. The focus of this paper is to understand more about the interior of the two ice giant planets, and to apply new detailed models and theoretical calculations into better understanding the excess energy problem. We propose that the theorized state of water in the interiors of the two ice giants, known as superionic water, influences the thermal properties inside the planets. We suppose this will impact the energy being generated inside the planets and may contribute to the excess energy that is being emitted by the ice giants.