YORP effect

English

Alternative forms

• Yarkovsky–O'Keefe–Radzievskii–Paddack effect

Etymology

From the first letters of the surnames Yarkovsky, O'Keefe, Radzievskii and Paddack + effect. Coined in 2000 by American geophysicist David Perry Rubincam.

Noun

YORP effect (uncountable)

1. (astrophysics) The effect of solar radiation on an asymmetric asteroid or other small body whereby its rate of rotation increases, potentially leading to the object's eventual disintegration.

See also

• Yarkovsky effect