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Lunar magma transport phenomenaAn outline of magma transport theory relevant to the evolution of a possible Lunar Magma Ocean and the origin and transport history of the later phase of mare basaltic volcanism is presented. A simple model is proposed to evaluate the extent of fractionation as magma traverses the cold lunar lithosphere. If Apollo green glasses are primitive and have not undergone significant fractionation en route to the surface, then mean ascent rates of 10 m/s and cracks of widths greater than 40 m are indicated. Lunar tephra and vesiculated basalts suggest that a volatile component plays a role in eruption dynamics. The predominant vapor species appear to be CO CO2, and COS. Near the lunar surface, the vapor fraction expands enormously and vapor internal energy is converted to mixture kinetic energy with the concomitant high-speed ejection of vapor and pyroclasts to form lunary fire fountain deposits such as the Apollo 17 orange and black glasses and Apollo 15 green glass.
Document ID
19920062097
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Spera, Frank J.
(California, University Santa Barbara, United States)
Date Acquired
August 15, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1992
Publication Information
Publication: Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta
Volume: 56
Issue: 6 Ju
ISSN: 0016-7037
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
92A44721
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSF EAR-90-18128
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-1452
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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