Solar system space dust avg density[kg/m^3]

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around estimating the average density of space dust in the solar system, specifically focusing on the mass and volume of materials not found within the Sun and its planets. Participants explore definitions of space dust and consider various factors that contribute to density calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster (OP) references Halliday & Resnick, suggesting an average density range of E-18 to E-21 kg/m³ for solar system space dust.
  • Some participants suggest making approximations for the total mass of moons and other celestial bodies, with one noting that Wikipedia contains relevant data.
  • Another participant proposes that a good first approximation for the solar system's total mass is the mass of the Sun, including planets for better accuracy.
  • It is noted that the Sun comprises over 99% of the solar system's mass, which may influence density calculations.
  • One participant clarifies that the OP intends to exclude the Sun and planets from their density calculations, while acknowledging that the overall density is largely determined by the Sun.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on how to define space dust and what should be included in density calculations. There is no consensus on the exact parameters for calculating average density, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to estimate the density of solar system space dust.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the need for clear definitions of what constitutes the edge of the solar system and the specific criteria for including or excluding various celestial bodies in density calculations. The discussion also highlights the uncertainty surrounding the mass of Kuiper belt objects.

R.L.Jacobsen
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What avg density [kg/m^3] may I attribute to solar system space dust? Halliday & Resnick give
E-18 to E-21 [kg/^3]. This will allow me to compute solar system density, if I know solar system radius[m], ie, distance from edge of solar system to centre-of-mass of our Sun.
By 'space dust' I mean any mass, not found within our Sun and its planets. This would include
moons, comets, asteroids. If you can give me the total mass and volume of the moons in our solar system, then I will alter my definition of space dust to mean any mass, not found within our Sun, moons, and suns planets.
 
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There are so many moons in the solar system. Make an approximation. Wikipedia has the masses of every moon in our solar system. Find out how many ones there are of significant size and make an order or magnitude calculation. I don't know how much it will change the numbers, the solar system is pretty huge...Also, what do you define as the edge of the solar system?
 
A good first approximation for the total mass of the solar system is the mass of the sun.
Include the planets, and you get an even better approximation.
If you really care about the 6. or 7. digit, add the big moons (there are less than 10 with relevant mass) and look for some estimates about Kuiper belt objects - problably the biggest source of uncertainty.
 
The sun comprises over 99% of the mass of the solar system.
 
mfb, chronos, I think the OP wanted to leave out the sun and the planets in his calculations...But yes, you're right, the density of the solar system in its entirety is basically determined by the sun.
 

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