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Abrasion of windblown particles on Mars - Erosion of quartz and basaltic sand under simulated Martian conditionsThe results of a series of laboratory experiments initiated to simulate Martian eolian erosion are presented. Experiments were conducted under Martian atmospheric pressure and compared to natural eolian sand produced on earth. It is reported that the less dense atmosphere on Mars resulted in more energetic eolian erosion manifested by an slightly higher rate of grain rounding and surface textures that included semicircular depressions termed 'popouts'. It is suggested that physical and chemical weathering may proceed more rapidly on Mars than on earth, given a sufficient supply of water vapor. In addition, clay mineral formations should be facilitated by the presence of large amounts of disrupted material. Finally, it is noted that the disrupted material could increase the ability of the soil to act as a reservoir for water thereby provisionally explaining the large amount of bound water on the surface soil material over much of Mars.
Document ID
19790068798
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Krinsley, D.
(Arizona State Univ. Tempe, AZ, United States)
Greeley, R.
(Arizona State University Tempe, Ariz., United States)
Pollack, J. B.
(NASA Ames Research Center Theoretical and Planetary Studies Branch, Moffett Field, Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
September 1, 1979
Publication Information
Publication: Icarus
Volume: 39
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
79A52811
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NCA2-ORO35-801
CONTRACT_GRANT: NCA2-ORO35-901
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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