Abstract
The difference between the interior structures of Uranus and Neptune is presented, based on models which fit the observed mass, radius, and gravitational moments for the assumed rotation periods of these planets. If Uranus and Neptune are assumed to be as similar in internal structure as they are in mass and radius, the rotation period for Neptune must be shorter than that for Uranus. It is suggested that the true rotation period is given by Neptune's oblateness, while the photometric period corresponds to the motion of Rossby waves in the upper atmosphere.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 266-271 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Icarus |
Volume | 63 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Aug 1985 |
Externally published | Yes |