Mathematics – Logic
Scientific paper
Dec 2010
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2010agufm.p23c..05p&link_type=abstract
American Geophysical Union, Fall Meeting 2010, abstract #P23C-05
Mathematics
Logic
[5475] Planetary Sciences: Solid Surface Planets / Tectonics, [6280] Planetary Sciences: Solar System Objects / Saturnian Satellites
Scientific paper
The Cassini spacecraft has now imaged Enceladus sufficiently well to recognize details of the satellite’s three distinct large-scale quasi-circular regions of tectonic deformation. In addition to the well-known “south polar terrain” (SPT), Enceladus also displays tectonically deformed terrains that we refer to as “trailing hemisphere terrain” (THT) and “leading hemisphere terrain” (LHT). Global geological mapping shows that each of the three terrains has a central region of tectonic deformation that is framed by units of curvilinear ridges and troughs, and all have comparable areal extent (the SPT being the smallest). Initial mapping by Porco et al. (Science 311, 1393, 2006) shows that the SPT has a central region which contains the distinctive subparallel “tiger stripes” and is wrapped by curvilinear terrain displaying outward-pointed Y-shaped zones of deformation that transition into radiating fracture zones. In its central region, the THT contains relatively old striated plains (Diyar and Sarandib Planitiae). These striated units are transected by ridged terrain, characterized by large ridges (the unusual “dorsa”), which are inferred to have formed by contraction and thrust faulting. The THT contains a unit consisting of smooth materials and long shallow troughs that is nearly identical to materials of the central SPT and with similar orientation. The LHT also contains a disorganized network of troughs similar to the central terrain of the SPT. The LHT contains polygons of sub-parallel troughs, suggestive of shearing. Neither the THT nor the LHT displays long individual and subparallel tectonic fractures that resemble the tiger stripes, and neither displays radiating fracture zones like those of the SPT. The gross similarities in shape and dimension of the tectonized terrains of Enceladus suggest similar formational processes, plausibly representing deformation above large-scale regions of warm ice. However, differences in morphological detail suggest variations on the theme, such that the detailed evolution of each tectonized terrain has been different. Their differences might be explained by different combinations of local uplift, collapse, satellite reorientation, and/or subsurface melting in the formation of the tectonized terrains.
Crow-Willard Emma
Pappalardo Robert T.
No associations
LandOfFree
Tectonized Terrains of Enceladus: The Same but Different 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 Tectonized Terrains of Enceladus: The Same but Different, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Tectonized Terrains of Enceladus: The Same but Different will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1496108