Multiple inner core wobbles in a simple Earth model with inviscid core

Abstract

Listen

Translate article

The inner core wobble (ICW) is the chandler wobble of the inner core. Its predicted period for the PREM model is about 7.5 years, based upon the resolution of the Liouville equations of conservation of angular momentum. Here, solving the local equation of conservation of linear momentum with a truncated chain that couples the toroidal and spheroidal displacement fields, the ICW is computed for a model made up of three homogeneous layers: an incompressible liquid outer core and rigid mantle and inner core. Contrary to the angular momentum approach, as implemented up to now, that provides a single ICW, the linear momentum approach shows that the dynamics of the neutrally stratified outer core may generate a family of ICWs with periods ranging from a few dozens to thousands of days. The mode with the largest wobble amplitude in the inner core has a period close to that obtained with the angular momentum approach.