Roles of methane and carbon dioxide in geological processes on Mars

Details Roles of methane and carbon dioxide in geological processes on Mars Roles of methane and carbon dioxide in geological processes on Mars

Feb 2011

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2011p%26ss...59..169k&link_type=abstract

Planetary and Space Science, Volume 59, Issue 2-3, p. 169-181.

Mathematics

Logic

9

Scientific paper

We discuss in this paper possible roles of methane and carbon dioxide in geological processes on Mars. These volatiles in the martian crust may migrate upward from their sources either directly or via various traps (structural, sedimentary, ground ice, gas hydrates). They are then likely emitted to the atmosphere by seepage or through diverse vent structures. Though gas hydrates have never been directly detected on Mars, theoretical studies favor their presence in the crust and polar caps; they could have played an important role as significant gas reservoirs in the subsurface. The martian gas hydrates would possibly be a binary system of methane and carbon dioxide occupying clathrate cavities. Landforms such as mud volcanoes with well-known linkage to gas venting are extensively distributed on Earth, and methane is the primary gas involved. Thus, identification of these landforms on Mars could suggest that methane and possibly carbon dioxide have contributed to geological processes of the planet. For example, we present a newly identified field in Chryse Planitia where features closely resembling terrestrial mud volcanoes occur widely, though with no observable activity. We also present results of a preliminary search for possible recent or present-day, methane-emission zones in the regions over which enrichments of atmospheric methane have been reported.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Roles of methane and carbon dioxide in geological processes on Mars 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 Roles of methane and carbon dioxide in geological processes on Mars, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Roles of methane and carbon dioxide in geological processes on Mars will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1533218