F Ring

Definition

The F Ring is a thin, faint ring located just outside Saturn's main ring system. It is known for its dynamic and changing structure caused by gravitational interactions with nearby moons.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The F Ring lies approximately 140,000 kilometers from Saturn's center.
2. The shepherd moons Prometheus and Pandora play a crucial role in maintaining the F Ring's structure.
3. Enceladus, one of Saturn’s moons, contributes to the material in the F Ring through its geyser activity.
4. The F Ring is composed primarily of water ice particles mixed with dust.
5. It was discovered in 1979 by the Pioneer 11 spacecraft.

Review Questions

• What role do Prometheus and Pandora play in the structure of the F Ring?
• How does Enceladus contribute to the material found in the F Ring?
• In what year was the F Ring discovered?

Related terms

Prometheus: A moon of Saturn that acts as an inner shepherd moon for the F Ring.

Pandora: A moon of Saturn that acts as an outer shepherd moon for the F Ring.

Enceladus: A moon of Saturn known for its geysers, which contribute material to Saturn's rings including the F Ring.