Discussion Overview
The discussion explores the possibility of planets having multiple liquid layers, such as an ocean of water with a deeper ocean of a heavier liquid. It examines the conditions under which such structures could exist, including circulation patterns similar to those on Earth.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants propose that multiple liquid layers are possible depending on pressure and temperature, referencing the Phase Diagram of Water.
- Others note that Earth has a molten rock layer, suggesting that terrestrial planets can have multiple liquid layers.
- It is mentioned that gas giants like Jupiter likely have multiple layers, with one participant asserting that Jupiter could retain water as ice under high atmospheric pressure.
- One participant brings up the example of Titan, which has lakes of hydrocarbons, indicating that hydrocarbon oceans can float on water oceans.
- Another participant questions why multi-layer oceans would circulate less than shallow oceans, suggesting that submarine CO2 oceans could experience violent eruptions.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express multiple competing views on the existence and behavior of liquid layers on planets, with no consensus reached on the specifics of circulation or the implications of different liquid compositions.
Contextual Notes
There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about pressure, temperature, and the specific conditions required for different liquid layers to exist. The discussion also relies on various interpretations of the Phase Diagram of Water.
Who May Find This Useful
This discussion may be of interest to those studying planetary science, astrophysics, or fluid dynamics, particularly in relation to exoplanetary climates and compositions.