The collisional evolution of asteroids is discussed in a critical review of observational, statistical, and theoretical investigations from the period 1973-1983. Biases such as underestimation of the proportion of small asteroids and overestimation of short-period large-amplitude objects are identified in the current data base; the importance of self-gravitation for the shape and rotation of asteroids is indicated; the dominant role of catastrophic impacts is stressed; and the problems posed by the slow rotation of the small asteroids, the bimodal period distribution of the Apollo-Amor-Aten asteroids, and large sizes and/or relative velocities of the family fragments are considered.
Collisional evolution of asteroids
PAOLICCHI, PAOLO
1983-01-01
Abstract
The collisional evolution of asteroids is discussed in a critical review of observational, statistical, and theoretical investigations from the period 1973-1983. Biases such as underestimation of the proportion of small asteroids and overestimation of short-period large-amplitude objects are identified in the current data base; the importance of self-gravitation for the shape and rotation of asteroids is indicated; the dominant role of catastrophic impacts is stressed; and the problems posed by the slow rotation of the small asteroids, the bimodal period distribution of the Apollo-Amor-Aten asteroids, and large sizes and/or relative velocities of the family fragments are considered.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
