Date: Monday 14-Sep-2020
Time: 11:15-12:15
Location: Online via Zoom (link sent out to the PALS distribution list prior to the talk)
Speaker: Maria Steinrueck (University of Arizona/LPL)
Title: Transport-induced disequilibrium chemistry and photochemical hazes in hot Jupiter atmospheres: Insights from 3D simulations
Out of all exoplanets, hot Jupiters are the most amenable to atmospheric characterization. To make sense of the growing body of observations and to better understand the atmospheres of these planets, three-dimensional models are crucial. The strong day-night temperature contrast on hot Jupiters drives a vigorous atmospheric circulation which can profoundly change chemical processes and cloud/haze formation. In turn, changed abundances have a feedback on the temperature structure and the winds. In this talk, I will highlight two examples of this interaction between chemistry (in a broad sense) and the atmospheric circulation. First, I will talk about including disequilibrium abundances of the important infrared absorbers CH4 and CO in general circulation models (GCMs). My results show that disequilibrium CH4 and CO abundances significantly affect the thermal structure, predicted phase curves and emission spectra of hot Jupiters. In the second part of the talk, I will present results on the 3D distribution of photochemical hazes and discuss implications for transit spectroscopy.
For further information contact PALS coordinator Dr. Lori Feaga at feaga@astro.umd.edu or (301)-405-1383.
SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS:Special accommodations for individuals with disabilities can be made by calling (301) 405-3001. It would be appreciated if we are notified at least one week in advance.