How do collisions affect the evolution of objects in the Oort cloud?

In summary, collisions in the Oort Cloud are relatively infrequent due to the low density of material, but they do occur. Evidence of collisions has been observed through changes in the behavior and appearance of comets. There is ongoing debate about the existence of the Oort Cloud and its formation, with some evidence suggesting that collisions may have played a role in its formation. Various studies, such as those by Stern and Charnox and Morbidelli, have explored the potential impact of collisions on the Oort Cloud.
  • #1
mersecske
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How frequent are collisions in the ooort cloud?
Are there any good reference in the literature about this topic?
 
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  • #2
IIRC, the Oort Cloud is still beyond our telescopes' sensitivity, although the recent infrared survey should find some denizens...

( There's even some argument about the Oort Cloud's existence: IIRC, it is inferred from the 'near hyperbolic' orbits of long-period comets... )

I remember reading of a 'dim' comet which suddenly flared. A collision with a small asteroid could account for its unusual pattern of spreading debris. However, some months later, another 'dim' comet flared likewise. The chance of two such collisions was so small that opinion swung to a major out-gassing event for both...

Uh, stuff does collide: After the Shoemaker-Levy9 mega-event, several amateur astronomers began watching Jupiter more closely. IIRC, they've since spotted the flash and/or dark patch of two small impactors. However, Jupiter's gravity will sweep a lot more volume than a trans-Neptunian Plutoid or dwarf planet...
 
  • #3
The very low density of material in the Oort cloud minimises the opportunity for collisions. However, Stern comments that impacts "cause extensive surface evolution to develop on comets in the cloud, if the number of small objects orbiting in the cloud is in accordance with “standard” power-law populations." (Stern, S.A. Collisions in the Oort Cloud. Icarus 73, 499–507 (1988).)

Stern has also written http://www.boulder.swri.edu/AR2003/Nature_comets.pdf" , from 2003.

http://arxiv.org/ftp/astro-ph/papers/0609/0609807.pdf" by Charnox and Morbidelli examines the collisional history during the formation of the Oort cloud.
 
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FAQ: How do collisions affect the evolution of objects in the Oort cloud?

What is the Oort cloud and why is it important in studying collisions?

The Oort cloud is a spherical region of icy objects that surrounds our solar system. It is believed to be the source of long-period comets that enter our inner solar system. Studying collisions in the Oort cloud can give us insights into the formation and evolution of our solar system.

How often do collisions occur in the Oort cloud?

The frequency of collisions in the Oort cloud is not well understood, as it is a very distant and difficult to observe region. However, it is believed that collisions occur relatively infrequently, as the objects in the Oort cloud are spread out over a large distance.

What causes collisions in the Oort cloud?

The most common cause of collisions in the Oort cloud is gravitational perturbations from passing stars or other objects. These perturbations can change the orbits of objects in the Oort cloud and cause them to collide with each other.

What are the potential effects of collisions in the Oort cloud?

Collisions in the Oort cloud can have various effects, such as altering the orbits of comets and other objects, creating new comets, and potentially sending some objects towards the inner solar system. These collisions can also release dust and gas, which can be observed by telescopes.

How do scientists study collisions in the Oort cloud?

Since the Oort cloud is so far away, it is difficult to directly study collisions. However, scientists can study the effects of collisions by observing changes in the orbits and compositions of objects in the Oort cloud. They can also use computer simulations to model and understand the dynamics of the collisions.

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