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2 clusters · 4 sources · 5 days · First seen · Last updated

Theory of Sun consuming a super-Earth

Overview

Astronomers are investigating a theory that the Sun consumed a ‘super-Earth’—a rocky planet potentially five to ten times more massive than Earth—during the early formation of the Solar System approximately 4.6 billion years ago.

Research led by Professor Mutlu Yildiz of Ege University suggests this event could resolve two major solar anomalies: the Sun’s significant lithium deficiency compared to expected levels in the proto-solar nebula, and discrepancies in sound speed measurements near the bottom of the Sun’s convection zone.

Using stellar evolution software and acoustic measurements, researchers are attempting to identify unique ‘chemical fingerprints’ or compositional changes within the Sun’s internal layers that would confirm the ingestion of such a large body.

Entities

Sun · Ege University · Mutlu Yildiz · NASA · Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society

Timeline

  1. 3 days ago

    [TECHNOLOGY] 2 sources
    Sun may have consumed a super-Earth in its youth, study suggests

    Astronomers suggest the Sun consumed a super-Earth in its youth, leaving chemical signatures that explain discrepancies in solar models and low lithium levels.

  2. 7 days ago

    [TECHNOLOGY] 2 sources
    Sun may have swallowed a super-Earth during formation

    Astrophysicists propose that the Sun may have swallowed a super-Earth during the Solar System's formation, potentially explaining the star's low lithium levels and unusual internal sound speeds.

Sources

go4it.ro · mediafax.ro · tempo.pt · universeToday.com