ar X iv : 0 71 0 . 06 99 v 1 [ as tr o - ph ] 3 O ct 2 00 7 Inevitability of Plate Tectonics on Super - Earths
نویسندگان
چکیده
The recent discovery of super-Earths (masses ≤ 10 M⊕) has initiated a discussion about conditions for habitable worlds. Among these is the mode of convection, which influences a planet’s thermal evolution and surface conditions. On Earth, plate tectonics has been proposed as a necessary condition for life. Here we show, that super-Earths will also have plate tectonics. We demonstrate that as planetary mass increases, the shear stress available to overcome resistance to plate motion increases while the plate thickness decreases, thereby enhancing plate weakness. These effects contribute favorably to the subduction of the lithosphere, an essential component of plate tectonics. Moreover, uncertainties in achieving plate tectonics in the one earth-mass regime disappear as mass increases: super-Earths, even if dry, will exhibit plate tectonic behaviour. Subject headings: planetary systems — planets and satellites — Earth corresponding author
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