Physics
Scientific paper
Dec 1999
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1999georl..26.3653k&link_type=abstract
Geophysical Research Letters, Volume 26, Issue 24, p. 3653-3656
Physics
11
Planetology: Solid Surface Planets: Atmospheres-Composition And Chemistry, Planetology: Solid Surface Planets: Atmospheres-Evolution, Planetology: Solid Surface Planets: Polar Regions, Planetology: Solar System Objects: Mars
Scientific paper
Using a new measurement of the D/H fractionation efficiency and new estimates of the water loss, we calculate that Mars has the equivalent of a ~9 m global water layer in a reservoir that exchanges with the atmosphere. The measured D/H enrichment is about 5 times the terrestrial value, but without exchange, the atmosphere converges on an enrichment of 50 in about 0.5 Ma. Due to the large buffering reservoir and the rapid loss rate (10-3pr-μmyr-1), the small atmospheric reservoir, averaging 10 pr-μm, is unlikely to be in continuous isotopic equilibrium with the full 9 m exchangeable reservoir. Instead, it presumably equilibrates during periods of high obliquity; the atmospheric D/H ratio is expected to be enriched in between such periods. If isotopic exchange with a small (4 mm global layer) reservoir occurs under current conditions, it possible for the atmospheric D/H ratio to be within 10% of its long term equilibrium.
Kass David Michael
Yung Yuk L.
No associations
LandOfFree
Water on Mars: Isotopic constraints on exchange between the atmosphere and surface 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 Water on Mars: Isotopic constraints on exchange between the atmosphere and surface, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Water on Mars: Isotopic constraints on exchange between the atmosphere and surface will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1727871