The Poynting-Robertson effect: A critical perspective

Physics of the Poynting-Robertson (P-R) effect is discussed and compared with the statements published in the past 30 years. Relativistically covariant formulation reveals the essence of the P-R effect and points out to nonphysical explanations in scientific papers and monographs. Although the final equation of motion md (v) over bar = (SA (Q) over bar (pr)/c)[(1 - (v) over bar.(e) over bar /c)(e) over right arrow - (v) over right arrow /c] has been usually correctly presented and used, its derivation and explanation of its essence is frequently incorrect. The difference between the effects of solar electromagnetic and corpuscular (solar wind) radiation is stressed. The force acting on the particle due to the solar wind (the simple case of radial solar wind velocity is considered) is (F) over right arrow (sw) = F-sw [(1 - (v) over right arrow.(e) over right arrow /v(sw))(e) over right arrow - x' (v) over right arrow /v(sw)], where F-sw is the force on the stationary particle, v(sw) is the heliocentric solar-wind speed, and, the value of x' depends on material properties of the particle (1 < x' < 3). We present secular orbital evolution of dust particle under the action of the P-R effect. Initial conditions are included. Time of spiralling of the particle into the Sun is analytically calculated. Secular evolutions of perihelion and aphelion distances are investigated. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.