Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics: simulation of volatiles emission from planetary surfaces

Abstract: Several astrophysical targets often need accurate modeling of some hydrodynamical processes, requiring advanced numerical simulations in most cases. The rapid variation of physical quantities can be handled with a Lagrangian description, like the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) approach.
In the first part of this talk, I will discuss the relevance of such a method, focusing on its large applicability and describing the underlying basic concepts and equations as well.
The second part focuses on applying the SPH method in studying the emission of volatiles (gas, ice and dust) from planetary surfaces. I will point out some important processes to be considered in such a scientific case and how to model them in the SPH framework.
Finally, I will show preliminary simulation outputs concerning a post-impact plume on the Moon’s surface as well as Enceladus’ plumes.