Mathematics – Logic
Scientific paper
May 2001
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2001agusm...p41a02b&link_type=abstract
American Geophysical Union, Spring Meeting 2001, abstract #P41A-02
Mathematics
Logic
5415 Erosion And Weathering, 5460 Physical Properties Of Materials, 5470 Surface Materials And Properties
Scientific paper
The Medusae Fossae Formation (MFF) is an extensive unit of somewhat enigmatic origin found near the Martian dichotomy boundary between the Tharsis and Elysium volcanic centers. Geologic mapping prior to the Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) mission identified at least three distinct members of MFF [1,2], with some suggestions for possible layering. More recent work using the MGS Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA) found the mapped members are poorly matched to topographic breaks, and that regional topographic characteristics, as well as new MOLA and Mars Orbiter Camera (MOC) evidence for layering and draping over older units, best support an eolian or volcanic airfall origin [3]. This study uses MOLA and MOC to characterize layering and some possible jointing in two areas: 180-190E, 5-11S and 198-202E, 2-8S. In both localities resistant layers of MFF are visible in both high-resolution Viking and MOC images. MOLA measurements show that these layers range from 50-700 m in thickness and may be correlated locally to other layers up to 120 km away. The layers identified by MOC and MOLA are smaller scale than the member thicknesses [3], and in many cases are at finer scales and more numerous than the Viking data suggested. However, elsewhere MOC and MOLA data reveal the MFF members can be massive, exhibiting no apparent evidence of layering at MGS resolutions. We believe these sections may be composed of a thick (up to 1 km) and less resistant layer, allowing for the formation of extensive yardang fields on some surfaces. Additionally, our second study region reveals the presence of lineations that appear to be possible joints within the MFF. These range from 35-45 degrees, and are consistent locally, but have not yet been detected regionally. [1] Greeley and Guest, Map I-1802-B, 1:15,000,000, 1987 [2] Scott and Tanaka, Map I-1802-A, 1:15,000,000, 1986 [3] Sakimoto et al., JGR 104(E10), 1999
Bradley Bethany A.
Sakimoto Susan E.
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