Showing papers by "Erik Asphaug published in 1992"
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the dynamic fragmentation in impacts into solids using a physical model for the formation and growth of cracks in rocks, which was then inserted into a numerical model (hydrocode) of stress wave propagation and interaction, from which the outcome of a given impact event can be computed.
Abstract: The dynamic fragmentation in impacts into solids is examined using a physical model for the formation and growth of cracks in rocks. The physical model is then inserted into a numerical model (hydrocode) of stress wave propagation and interaction, from which the outcome of a given impact event can be computed. The hydrocode model predicts fragment sizes due to impact in terms of shock waves propagating in a homogeneous elastic medium containing a distribution of crack nucleation centers known as Weibull flaws.
305 citations
01 Mar 1992
TL;DR: This article used Gaspra as a test-case for hydrocode computations, in comparison with the ejecta velocity scaling law of Housen et al. and showed that both models predict a mature regolith on this small body and its kin.
Abstract: Competition among scaling laws, and the complexity of numerical models, has fostered much debate as to whether small asteroids have regolith [1,2]. Prior to the arrival of Galileo at Gaspra, many predicted a clean surface, while others foresaw a highly evolved regolith or even a rubblepile. The images in fact show a substantial degree of regolith maturity, causing revisionist thinking in some circles. We use Gaspra as a test-case for hydrocode computations, in comparison with the ejecta velocity scaling law of Housen et al. [3], and show that both models predict a mature regolith on this small body and its kin.
6 citations