Particle entrainment and rotating convection in Enceladus’ ocean

Abstract Observations from Cassini have identified nanometer-sized silica grains in Saturn’s E-ring although their origin is unclear. Tidal deformation within Enceladus’ silicate core has been predicted to generate hot hydrothermal fluids that rise the core-ocean boundary and traverse subsurface ocean. This raises possibility particles observed by could produced alteration ejected via south polar plumes. Here, we use an analytical model quantify potential for particle entrainment We scaling relations characterize ocean convection define a parameter space enables entrainment. find both heat fluxes transport timescale necessary drive oceanic entrain of sizes are consistent with observations predictions existing thermal models. conclude at seafloor indeed be source E-ring.