Rayleigh-Teilchen (a < 10-5 cm) im interplanetaren Raum?

Abstract

The question if submicron particles could be present in interplanetary space is discussed in some detail. On the assumption that the polarization of the zodiacal light is due to scattering of sunlight by submicron particles their spatial density is derived (chapter 2). The investigation of the forces exerted on those particles by the radiation pressure of sunlight and by interaction with the particles and magnetic fields of the solar wind shows that the „lifetime“ of submicron particles in interplanetary space is probably less than 103 years (chapter 1 and 3). Therefore it seems doubtful that they can exist in considerable numbers.