Other
Scientific paper
Jun 2009
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2009jgre..11406001c&link_type=abstract
Journal of Geophysical Research, Volume 114, Issue E6, CiteID E06001
Other
7
Planetary Sciences: Solar System Objects: Mars, Planetary Sciences: Comets And Small Bodies: Erosion And Weathering, Planetary Sciences: Comets And Small Bodies: Surfaces, Geochemistry: Geochemical Modeling (3610, 8410), Hydrology: Debris Flow And Landslides
Scientific paper
We studied the viscosity of ferric sulfate Fe2(SO4)3 solutions as a model for low-temperature liquids on the surface of Mars and their implication in the formation of gullies. Viscosity varies with temperature and concentration, ranging from 7.0 × 10-3 Pa s for 38.8 wt % at 285.15 K to 4.6 Pa s for 58.2 wt % at 260.15 K. Using the experimental results, we built a semiempirical equation of viscosity as a function of temperature and salt concentration, which was combined with a numerical model to estimate the effect of these solutions on the formation of gullies. Calculated fluid velocities ranged from 0.5 to 14 m s-1, in accordance with estimates from image analyses. Turbulent flow occurs in the majority of the conditions and is characterized by a constant velocity (˜8.5 m s-1). At very low temperature and high concentration, the laminar regime shows reduced velocities (down to ˜0.5 m s-1). In between, a transitional regime presents high velocities, up to 14 m s-1. Using the velocities, we determined the size threshold for boulders to be moved by the liquid flow. Depending on the regime, boulders of diameter inferior to 3 m (turbulent), 4 m (transition), and down to 0.5 m (laminar) are displaced. Since laminar flow occurs only in an extremely limited range of conditions, for low temperatures (<240 K) and supersaturated solutions, the abundance of small boulders (˜0.5 m) in gully channels requires lower velocities and higher viscosities than ferric sulfate solution or any other water-based liquid can reach. This suggests an important participation of debris mixed with the liquid phase.
Altheide Travis S.
Chevrier Vincent F.
Ulrich Richard
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