Comparison of density waves in the rings of Saturn and Uranus

Abstract

Planetary rings respond to resonant satellite perturbations in a variety of ways, giving rise to different structures. Possible responses include generation of waves, wakes, creation of sharp edges and confinement of rings, best illustrated in Saturn's rings /1,2,3/, but not in the Uranian rings. Two possible waves have been identified in the Voyager 2 photopolarimeter (PPS) occultation profiles of the ε ring close to predicted satellite resonances /4/; and one density wave inferred in the δ ring /5/. These are the first possible waves in narrow, eccentric and inclined rings and will be compared to the waves in Saturn's rings.