Physics
Scientific paper
Dec 2005
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2005p%26ss...53.1496v&link_type=abstract
Planetary and Space Science, Volume 53, Issue 14-15, p. 1496-1500.
Physics
7
Scientific paper
The depth-to-diameter (d/D) ratios were determined for 12 craters located near the Mercurian north pole that were identified by Harmon et al. (2001, Icarus 149) as having strong depolarized radar echos. We find that the mean d/D value of these radar-bright craters is 23 the mean d/D value of the general population of non-radar-bright craters in the surrounding north polar region. Previous studies, however, show no difference between d/D values of Mercurian polar and equatorial crater populations, suggesting that no terrain softening which could modify crater structure exists at the Mercurian poles (Barlow et al., 1999, 194, Icarus 141). Thus, the change in d/D is governed by a change in crater depth, probably due to deposition of material inside the crater. The volume of infilling material, including volatiles, in the radar-bright craters is significantly greater than predicted by proposed mechanisms for the emplacement of either water ice or sulfur.
Barlow Nadine G.
Cobian Paul S.
Lederer Susan M.
Vilas Faith
No associations
LandOfFree
How much material do the radar-bright craters at the Mercurian poles contain? 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 How much material do the radar-bright craters at the Mercurian poles contain?, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and How much material do the radar-bright craters at the Mercurian poles contain? will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1467133