Geochemical Modeling of Hot Spring Chemistries with Applications to Martian Silica Formation

Details Geochemical Modeling of Hot Spring Chemistries with Applications to Martian Silica Formation Geochemical Modeling of Hot Spring Chemistries with Applications to Martian Silica Formation

Dec 2010

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2010agufm.p53a1486m&link_type=abstract

American Geophysical Union, Fall Meeting 2010, abstract #P53A-1486

Other

[1009] Geochemistry / Geochemical Modeling, [1034] Geochemistry / Hydrothermal Systems, [3611] Mineralogy And Petrology / Thermodynamics, [6225] Planetary Sciences: Solar System Objects / Mars

Scientific paper

Many studies recently have implicated hydrothermal systems as drivers for Martian geochemistries across a wide range of Martian sites. One of the leading empirical supports for hydrothermal systems are the massive silica (SiO2) deposits, in some cases > 90% silica, in the Gusev Crater region, especially in the Columbia Hills and at Home Plate. In this presentation, we will (1) show the extension of a FREZCHEM-like model (called CHEMCHAU) to 100°C for hydrothermal simulations, and (2) apply the model to hot spring environments, especially where massive silica deposits can precipitate. For the new CHEMCHAU model, Pitzer parameters, volumetric parameters, and equilibrium constants for the Na-K-Mg-Ca-H-Cl-ClO4-SO4-OH-HCO3-CO3-CO2-O2-CH4-Si-H2O system were developed that mostly covered the temperature range of 0-100°C and the pressure range of 1-1000 bars. Simulation of an acid sulfate case (low pH) from Yellowstone hot springs led to precipitation of Fe and Al minerals along with silica, which is similar to some Martian mineral assemblages. Formation of silica at elevated temperatures (82°C) and high pH (8.45) led to precipitation of anhydrous salts (CaSO4, Na2SO4) that are clear indicators of high temperature environments. Secondary minerals associated with massive silica deposits are likely indicators of precipitation environments.

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