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| Paper: |
Fingerprinting the Formation of Giant Planets Using the Binary System 16 Cyg |
| Volume: |
496, Living Together: Planets, Host Stars and Binaries |
| Page: |
411 |
| Authors: |
Melendez, J.; Tucci Maia, M.; Ramirez, I. |
| Abstract: |
In the core-accretion scenario of giant planet formation, a rocky core forms first by aggregation of solid particles until it reaches a few Earth masses, at which point it is massive enough to accrete a gaseous envelope. For the first time we have detected evidence of this rocky core, a basic step in the formation of giant planets. This evidence was obtained through the analysis of the binary stars 16 Cyg A and 16 Cyg B. Only the latter star (16 Cyg B) hosts a giant planet, so that a differential chemical abundance analysis of both components can reveal signatures left by giant planet formation. We found a deficiency of refractory elements in 16 Cyg B, compatible with the formation of a rocky core of about 1.5–6 Earth masses in the giant planet 16 Cyg Bb. |
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