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arXiv · 1908.02771

Characterizing the Distribution of Parameters of Planets Found by Radial Velocity is Essential for Understanding Planet Formation and Evolution

Stuart F. Taylor
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Abstract

Features in the distribution of exoplanet parameters by period demonstrate that the distribution of planet parameters is rich with information that can provide essential guidance to understanding planet histories. Structure has been found in the counts of planet-star "objects" by period, and within these structures, there are different correlations of eccentricity with planet number, stellar metallicity, planet count density per log period, stellar multiplicity, and planet mass. These appear to change with each other, and with stellar mass, but there are too few planets to easily and reliably study these important relationships. These relationships are the bulk observables against which the theory of planet formation and evolution must be tested. The opportunity to determine the nature of the relationships of the exoplanet parameters on each other demonstrate the value of finding more planets across period ranging from days to thousands of days and beyond. We recommend support for continuing to find more planets, even giant planets, with periods up to periods of a few thousand days. We also recommend support for the study of the distribution of the many exoplanet parameters.

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Stuart F. Taylor. 2019-08-07. Characterizing the Distribution of Parameters of Planets Found by Radial Velocity is Essential for Understanding Planet Formation and Evolution. https://arxiv.org/abs/1908.02771

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