The problem of scale in planetary geomorphology

Details The problem of scale in planetary geomorphology The problem of scale in planetary geomorphology

Jul 1985

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1985gmgm.rept...76r&link_type=abstract

In NASA. Goddard Space Flight Center Global Mega-Geomorphology p 76-78 (SEE N85-32357 21-42)

Physics

Geomorphology, Landforms, Planetary Geology, Scale (Ratio), Acceleration (Physics), Atmospheric Density, Comparison, Earth Surface, Mars (Planet), Planetary Atmospheres, Planetary Gravitation, Planetary Surfaces, Planetary Temperature, Water

Scientific paper

Recent planetary exploration has shown that specific landforms exhibit a significant range in size between planets. Similar features on Earth and Mars offer some of the best examples of this scale difference. The difference in heights of volcanic features between the two planets has been cited often; the Martian volcano Olympus Mons stands approximately 26 km high, but Mauna Loa rises only 11 km above the Pacific Ocean floor. Polygonally fractured ground in the northern plains of Mars has diameters up to 20 km across; the largest terrestrial polygons are only 500 m in diameter. Mars also has landslides, aeolian features, and apparent rift valleys larger than any known on Earth. No single factor can explain the variations in landform size between planets. Controls on variation on Earth, related to climate, lithology, or elevation, have seldom been considered in detail. The size differences between features on Earth and other planets seem to be caused by a complex group of interacting relationships. The major planetary parameters that may affect landform size are discussed.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

The problem of scale in planetary geomorphology does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with The problem of scale in planetary geomorphology, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The problem of scale in planetary geomorphology will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1231955