Excess Radiation from the Large Planets

Abstract

An alternative model is proposed for the excess radiation emitted by the larger planets, each with a liquid metallic hydrogen annular domain about a central core of ice and rocks. This model is based on the mutual attraction between elements of an aggregate of charged bosons in a charge-neutralizing background, in equilibrium at very high pressure, and the property that spin-1 deuterons are bosons. Assuming valid parameters for Jupiter, it is derived that the deuteron density in Saturn is approximately equal to that in Jupiter and that particles emitted in reactions in the liquid metal domain are thermalized in the liquid hydrogen domain, resulting in infrared radiation, in accord with observed values. With corroborating properties of Neptune, it is proposed that this planet likewise contains a spherical shell of liquid metallic hydrogen outside and close to its rocky core. Whereas data are insufficient to support degenerate fusion, the known magnetic moment of Neptune is found to be consistent with positive charge components rotating in the frame of the liquid metallic hydrogen fluid with current density ≈8.4 × 10-6 A m-2. It is proposed that the related coupling between current and magnetic field is supported by a dynamo effect. A brief description is included describing the influence of convective storms in the large planets.