On the Volatile Enrichments and Composition of Jupiter

Abstract

Using the clathrate hydrates trapping theory, we discuss the enrichments in volatiles in the atmosphere of Jupiter measured by the Galileo probe in the framework of new extended core accretion planet formation models including migration and disk evolution. We construct a self-consistent model in which the volatile content of planetesimals accreted during the formation of Jupiter is calculated from the thermodynamical evolution of the disk. Assuming CO 2 : CO : CH4 = 30 : 10 : 1 (ratios compatible with interstellar medium measurements), we show that we can explain the enrichments in volatiles in a way compatible with the recent constraints set from internal structure modeling on the total amount of heavy elements present in the planet. © 2005. The American Astronomical Society. All rights reserved.