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On the original igneous source of Martian finesThe composition of the silicate portion of Martian regolith fines indicates derivation of the fines from mafic to ultramafic rocks, probably rich in pyroxene. Rock types similar in chemical and mineralogical composition include terrestrial Archean basalts and certain achondrite meteorites. If these igneous rocks weathered nearly isochemically, the nontronitic clays proposed earlier as an analog to Martian fines could be formed. Flood basalts of pyroxenitic lavas may be widespread and characteristic of early volcanism on Mars, analogous to maria flood basalts on the moon and early Precambrian basaltic komatiites on earth. Compositional differences between lunar, terrestrial, and Martian flood basalts may be related to differences in planetary sizes and mantle compositions of the respective planetary objects.
Document ID
19810053534
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Baird, A. K.
(Pomona College Claremont, CA, United States)
Clark, B. C.
(Martin Marietta Planetary Sciences Laboratory Denver, CO, United States)
Date Acquired
August 11, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1981
Publication Information
Publication: Icarus
Volume: 45
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
81A37938
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7566
CONTRACT_GRANT: NASW-3284
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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