On the Period-Mass Functions of Extrasolar Planets

TL;DR

This paper constructs the first coupled period-mass function for extrasolar planets using non-parametric methods, revealing correlations that inform planetary formation theories.

Contribution

It introduces the first analytic coupled period-mass function for extrasolar planets and explores how mass and period distributions vary with each other.

Findings

Confirmed deficit of massive close-in planets

More massive planets have wider semi-major axis ranges

Mass and period functions are moderately correlated

Abstract

Using the period and mass data of two hundred and seventy-nine extrasolar planets, we have constructed a coupled period-mass function through the non-parametric approach. This analytic expression of the coupled period-mass function has been obtained for the first time in this field. Moreover, due to a moderate period-mass correlation, the shapes of mass/period functions vary as a function of period/mass. These results of mass and period functions give way to two important implications: (1) the deficit of massive close-in planets is confirmed, and (2) the more massive planets have larger ranges of possible semi-major axes. These interesting statistical results will provide important clues into the theories of planetary formation.