Category: Planetary Science

Why Tholins are Absent in the Inner Solar System: A Planetary Science Mystery

Tholins are complex organic molecules formed by the irradiation of simple organic compounds such as methane, ammonia, and nitrogen. These organic molecules have been found on the surface of various bodies in the outer Solar System, including Pluto, Triton, and the icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn. However, they are not found in the inner

Calculating Planetary Surface Temperatures: Insights from First Principles

Understanding the temperature of a planet’s surface is a critical aspect of planetary science. It helps us understand the planet’s climate, weather patterns, and potential for life. The surface temperature of a planet is determined by a variety of factors, including the planet’s distance from its star, the planet’s atmosphere, and the surface properties of