ASTEROID BELT
RESONANCE GAPS
3:1 at 2.50 AU
5:2 at 2.82 AU
7:3 at 2.96 AU
2:1 at 3.28 AU
5:2 at 2.82 AU
7:3 at 2.96 AU
2:1 at 3.28 AU
Jupiter's gravity creates mean-motion resonances that clear gaps in the asteroid belt. Asteroids at commensurable orbital periods receive periodic gravitational kicks that amplify eccentricity until they are ejected. The gaps appear at ratios 3:1, 5:2, 7:3, and 2:1 with Jupiter's orbital period.