Description
- Abstract:
- Mars is often described as a basaltic planet, one that is dominated by large volcanic complexes that cover much of the surface. However, several key locations were studied here to show that the volcanic story on Mars is much more dynamic and complex than previously thought. To look at the earliest history of Mars, the igneous composition of impact crater central peaks were analyzed. In over two dozen spectrally well-exposed central peaks from across the planet, we see that the deep crust of Mars is formed from segregated olivine and pyroxene cumulates. The olivine range from intermediate to fayalitic composition and the pyroxene is consistent with pigeonite with slight regional variations. These cumulates are considered to be the results of large scale volcanic activity in the early Noachian, potentially related to a mantle overturn, that lead to a layered mafic intrusion forming much of the early crust. Additional igneous diversity was observed in younger terrains in the Nili Patera caldera of the Syrtis Major volcanic complex. Observed here is a previously discovered evolved dacitic lava flow, and the newly described discovery of a spatially related volcanically driven hydrothermal system. This system was driven by the late stage volcanic heating related to the evolved volcanism to create potential hot springs deposits ideally suited for supporting and preserving evidence of life. These examples illustrate the complexity of volcanism on Mars and the reality that it is much more than just the basaltic story exposed over much of the Martian surface. The transition from old terrains to younger volcanics is illustrated in the northeast Syrtis area that has Hesperian volcanism on top of Noachian altered and igneous terrains. The detailed description of a potential fluvial system that bridges this boundary adds to the understanding of the evolution of Martian terrains.
- Notes:
- Thesis (Ph.D. -- Brown University (2013)
Access Conditions
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Citation
Skok, John Roma,
"Mars Volcanic Evolution: Spectroscopic Analysis of Igneous Compositions"
(2013).
Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences Theses and Dissertations.
Brown Digital Repository. Brown University Library.
https://doi.org/10.7301/Z0P55KTP
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Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences Theses and Dissertations
Theses and Dissertations for the Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences department....