Mathematics – Logic
Scientific paper
May 2008
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2008georl..3510202s&link_type=abstract
Geophysical Research Letters, Volume 35, Issue 10, CiteID L10202
Mathematics
Logic
7
Geochronology: Planetary And Lunar Geochronology, Planetary Sciences: Solid Surface Planets: Impact Phenomena, Cratering (6022, 8136), Planetary Sciences: Solar System Objects: Mars, Planetary Sciences: Solid Surface Planets: Erosion And Weathering
Scientific paper
The density of impact craters calibrated against lunar data is currently the only quantitative measure of surface age for terrestrial planetary surfaces. Unlike the Moon, however, Mars has been weathered and eroded, obliterating some small (<10 km diameter) craters, a phenomenon addressed in the Mariner/Viking days of Mars exploration but commonly overlooked in recent studies. We present a quantitative model that extends this earlier work to assess the effect of erosion and infilling on surface ages inferred from crater-frequency distributions. Our work affirms that small-crater size distributions can be interpreted quantitatively in terms of effects of erosion and crater infilling at rates comparable to those reported for Mars. A reanalysis of prior studies indicates that low to moderate long-term rates of erosion and crater infilling can mask an ancient age and result in small-crater populations similar to those offered as evidence for young and geologically significant surface activity.
Gillespie Alan R.
Montgomery David R.
Smith Matthew R.
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