The accretion of cosmic dust - a computer simulation

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a three-dimensional computer simulation of the growth of cosmic dust aggregates. The sphericity and packing fraction of the resulting dust aggregates are quantified as a function of size. Similarities are noticed between the aggregates so produced and micrometeorites found in the decay products of cometary nuclei. Using a mass distribution index of 1.73 for the accreting particles resulted in an aggregate with a mean volume packing fraction of about 0.25±0.1. This predicts an ice to dust mass ratio in cometary nuclei of about 1, a value similar to observed ratios.