Relative motions of fragments of the split comets: III. A test of splitting and comets with suspected multiple nuclei

摘要: Abstract A test based on a model of split comets that assumes the motions cometary fragments to be determined primarily by outgassing is devised establish whether or not an allegedly multiple comet has in fact split. The first applied 18 suspects for which quantitative descriptions multiplicity and some supportive evidence have been published. It found only 6 them are clear-cut cases (Sawerthal 1888 I, Campbell 1914 IV, Whipple-Fedtke-Tevzadze 1943 Honda 1955 V, Wild 1968 III, Tago-Sato-Kosaka 1969 IX), although there good chance another 2 (Davidson 1889 IV Periodic Giacobini 1896 V) broke up as well. About half these secondary nuclei turn out short-lived companions (with decelerations relative principal between 0.0004 0.0008 solar attraction), but minor (decelerations from 0.0010 0.0050), particularly difficult detect, suggested break off parent most frequently. For Comet we find breakup coincided with flare-up reported several visual observers sudden increase thermal flux comet. No appears exist among 15 unconfirmed available. Numerous qualitative remarks “granulated” early disregarded.