Plasma physics and planetary astrophysics

TL;DR

This review summarizes current experimental and theoretical research on matter properties under planetary interior conditions, emphasizing hydrogen, helium, and heavier elements, and discusses implications for planetary structure and exoplanet observations.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in understanding matter behavior at high pressures and temperatures relevant to planetary interiors, integrating experimental, theoretical, and observational perspectives.

Findings

Hydrogen and helium properties at high pressure are crucial for planetary models.

Equation of state of heavier elements significantly influences planetary interior predictions.

Exoplanet transit data and mass-radius relationships inform planetary composition analysis.

Abstract

In this review, I briefly summarize the present status of experimental and theoretical investigations of the properties of matter under conditions characteristic of planetary interiors, from terrestrial to jovian planets. I first focus on the two lightest elements, hydrogen and helium, and discuss recent theoretical and experimental investigations of their properties at high pressure and temperature. Then, I discuss the impact of these properties, as well as of the equation of state of heavier elements, on planetary interiors. Finally, I highlight the importance of exoplanet transit observations and of the inferred mass-radius relationships to determine the planetary interior compositions.