Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astronomy
Scientific paper
May 1979
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1979icar...38..243p&link_type=abstract
Icarus, vol. 38, May 1979, p. 243-250.
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astronomy
17
Crustal Fractures, Fracturing, Mercury (Planet), Planetary Evolution, Planetary Rotation, Spin Reduction, Astronomical Models, Combined Stress, Graphs (Charts), Lithosphere, Stress Analysis, Tectonics, Mercury, Stress, Tectonism, Models, Contraction, Thrust Faults, Equatorial Regions, Lithosphere, Faults, Tidal Despinning, Rotation, Expansion
Scientific paper
We have determined the global fracture patterns resulting from combinations of stresses due to tidal despinning and contraction or expansion. We find that Mercury's lineament pattern is consistent with a history of despinning and contraction. According to our model, the observed tectonic pattern implies that the despinning process reached completion before the planet ceased contracting. Our model predicts a stress due to contraction which is up to 1.8 times the maximum despinning stress on Mercury. The maximum contractional stress could be as large as 4 times the maximum despinning stress if the oldest fractures on the planet are N-S thrust faults in the equatorial region.
Melosh Henry Jay
Pechmann J. B.
No associations
LandOfFree
Global fracture patterns of a despun planet - Application to Mercury 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 Global fracture patterns of a despun planet - Application to Mercury, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Global fracture patterns of a despun planet - Application to Mercury will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1702466