The role of cluster evolution in disrupting planetary systems and disks: the Kozai mechanism

TL;DR

This paper investigates how cluster dynamical evolution can alter binary star inclinations, potentially triggering the Kozai mechanism that disrupts planetary systems, affecting up to 10% of extrasolar planets.

Contribution

It provides evidence that cluster evolution can increase binary inclination angles into the Kozai threshold, a novel insight into planetary system disruption mechanisms.

Findings

Up to 20% of binary systems have inclination angles within the Kozai threshold.

Approximately 10% of extrasolar planets could be influenced by the Kozai mechanism.

Cluster dynamics can significantly impact planetary system stability.

Abstract

We examine the effects of dynamical evolution in clusters on planetary systems or protoplanetary disks orbiting the components of binary stars. In particular, we look for evidence that the companions of host stars of planetary systems or disks could have their inclination angles raised from zero to between the threshold angles (39.23 degrees and 140.77 degrees) that can induce the Kozai mechanism. We find that up to 20 per cent of binary systems have their inclination angles increased to within the threshold range. Given that half of all extrasolar planets could be in binary systems, we suggest that up to 10 per cent of extrasolar planets could be affected by this mechanism.