Saturn's Rings: Why Are They Split?

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Saturn's rings are divided into multiple rings due to the gravitational influence of its moons, which create gaps at specific resonant radii. Each gap corresponds to a particular moon's orbit, preventing the rings from merging into a single massive ring. The interaction between the moons and the ring particles maintains this structure. Understanding the mathematics behind these resonances is complex but crucial for comprehending the dynamics of Saturn's rings. The unique configuration of the rings is a result of these gravitational interactions.
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Why are Saturns rings broken up into many rings? Why don't they all just orbit together in one massive ring.
 
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Forestman said:
Why are Saturns rings broken up into many rings? Why don't they all just orbit together in one massive ring.

Hi Forestman! :smile:

Because Saturn's moons sweep out gaps at certain "resonant" radii …

each gap can be identified with a particular moon :wink:

(dunno what the maths is, though :redface:)
 
Thanks tiny-tim.
 

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