Mars: Long term changes in the state and distribution of H2O

Details Mars: Long term changes in the state and distribution of H2O Mars: Long term changes in the state and distribution of H2O

Apr 1985

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1985pggp.rept..337f&link_type=abstract

In NASA, Washington Repts. of Planetary Geol. and Geophys. Program, 1984 p 337 (SEE N85-23474 13-91)

Physics

Hydrogeology, Ice, Mars Atmosphere, Mars Surface, Water, Atmospheric Moisture, Cycles, Kinetics, Planetary Geology, Planetary Temperature, Polar Caps, Regolith

Scientific paper

A model for H2O distribution and migration on Mars was formulated which takes into account: (1) thermal variations at all depths in the regolith due to variations in obliquity, eccentricity and the solar constant; (2) variations in atmospheric PH2O caused by corresponding changes in polar surface insolation; and (3) the finite kinetics of H2O migration in both the regolith and atmosphere. Results suggest that regolith H2O transport rates are more strongly influenced by polar-controlled atmospheric PH2O variations than variations in pore gas PH2 brought about by thermal variations at the buried ice interface. The configuration of the ice interface as a function of assumed soil parameter and time is derived. Withdrawal of ice proceeds to various depths at latitudes 50 deg and is accompanied by filling of regolith pores at latitudes 50 deg and transfer of H2O to the polar cap. The transfer has a somewhat oscillatory character, but only 1g/sq cm is shifted into and out the regolith during each obliquity cycle. It is concluded that this process combined with periodic thermal cycles played a major role in development of the fretted terrain, deflationary features in general, patterned ground, the north polar cap and the layered terrain.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Mars: Long term changes in the state and distribution of H2O 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 Mars: Long term changes in the state and distribution of H2O, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Mars: Long term changes in the state and distribution of H2O will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1290080