paper

A Flat Inner Disk Model as an Alternative to the Kepler Dichotomy in the Q1 to Q16 Planet Population

arXiv:1702.08126 · doi:10.1093/mnras/stx414

Abstract

We use simulated planetary systems to model the planet multiplicity of Kepler stars. Previous studies have underproduced single planet systems and invoked the so called Kepler dichotomy, where the planet forming ability of a Kepler star is dichotomous, producing either few or many transiting planets. In this paper we show that the Kepler dichotomy is only required when the inner part of planetary disks are just assumed to be flared. When the inner part of planetary disks are flat, we reproduce the observed planet multiplicity of Kepler stars without the need to invoke a dichotomy. We find that independent of the disk model assumed, the mean number of planets per star is approximately 2 for orbital periods between 3 and 200 days, and for planetary radii between 1 and 5 Earth radii. This contrasts with the Solar System where no planets occupy the same parameter space.

13 pages, 10 figures, accepted for publication in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society

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