Rayleigh Taylor instability as a mechanism for corona formation on Venus

Details Rayleigh Taylor instability as a mechanism for corona formation on Venus Rayleigh Taylor instability as a mechanism for corona formation on Venus

Feb 2006

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2006icar..180..292h&link_type=abstract

Icarus, Volume 180, Issue 2, p. 292-307.

Computer Science

15

Scientific paper

In this study we explore the idea that coronae have formed on Venus as a result of gravitational (Rayleigh Taylor) instability of the lithosphere. The lithosphere is represented by a system of stratified homogeneous viscous layers (low-density crust over high density mantle, over lower density layer beneath the lithosphere). A small harmonic perturbation imposed on the base of the lithosphere is observed to result in gravitational instability under the constraint of assumed axisymmetry. Topography develops with time under the influence of dynamic stress associated with downwelling or upwelling, and spatially variable crustal thickening or thinning. Topography may therefore be elevated or depressed above a mantle downwelling, but the computed gravity anomaly is always negative above a mantle downwelling in a homogeneous asthenosphere. The ratio of peak gravity to topography anomaly depends primarily on the ratio of crust to lithospheric viscosity. Average observed ratios are well resolved for two groups of coronae (˜40 mgal km-1), consistent with models in which the crust is perhaps 5 times stronger than the lithosphere. Group 3a (rim surrounding elevated central region) coronae are inferred to arise from a central upwelling model, whereas Group 8 (depression) coronae are inferred to arise from central downwelling. Observed average coronae radii are consistent with a lithospheric thickness of only 50 km. An upper low-density crustal layer is 10 20 km thick, as inferred from the amplitude of gravity and topography anomalies.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Rayleigh Taylor instability as a mechanism for corona formation on Venus 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 Rayleigh Taylor instability as a mechanism for corona formation on Venus, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Rayleigh Taylor instability as a mechanism for corona formation on Venus will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1492367