Extra-Solar Planets : The Detection, Formation, Evolution and Dynamics of Planetary Systems

Since the discovery of the first exoplanet orbiting a main sequence star in 1995, nearly 500 planets have been detected, with this number expected to increase dramatically as new ground-based planetary searches begin to report their results. Emerging techniques offer the tantalizing possibility of detecting an Earth-mass planet in the habitable zone of a solar-type star as well as the exciting prospect of studying exoplanetary atmospheres that could reveal the presence of biomarkers, such as water vapor, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. Can we find the "Holy Grail" of exoplanets? Cutting-edge research may reveal the answer Written by internationally renowned scientists at the forefront of the field, Extra-Solar Planets: The Detection, Formation, Evolution and Dynamics of Planetary Systems presents powerful analytical tools and methods for investigating extra-solar planetary systems. It discusses new theories on planetary migration and resonant capture that elucidate the existence of "hot Jupiters." It also examines the astrophysical mechanisms required to assemble gas giant planets close to their parent star. In addition, the expert contributors describe how mathematical tools involving periodicity, chaos, and resonance are used to study the diversity and stability of observed planetary systems. By presenting the fundamental analyses that underpin modern studies of extra-solar planetary systems, this graduate-level book enables readers to thoroughly understand important recent developments and offers a platform for future research. It also improves readers’ understanding of our own solar system and its place in the diverse range of planetary systems discovered so far.