Origin and evolution of the layered deposits in the Valles Marineris, Mars

Journal Article · Mon Jun 01 00:00:00 EDT 1987 · Icarus; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/0019-1035(87)90086-8· OSTI ID:5965782

Nedell, S S; Squyres, S W; Andersen, D W

Four hypotheses are discussed concerning the origin of the layered deposits in the Martian Valles Marineris, whose individual thicknesses range from about 70 to 300 m. The hypothesized processes are: (1) aeolian deposition; (2) deposition of remnants of the material constituting the canyon walls; (3) deposition of volcanic eruptions; and (4) deposition in standing bodies of water. The last process is chosen as most consistent with the rhythm and lateral continuity of the layers, as well as their great thickness and stratigraphic relationship with other units in the canyons. Attention is given to ways in which the sediments could have entered an ice-covered lake; several geologically feasible mechanisms are identified. 46 references.

• Research Organization: NASA, Ames Research Center, Moffett Field; San Jose State Univ., CA; NASA, Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA
• OSTI ID: 5965782
• Journal Information: Icarus; (United States), Vol. 70
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
MARS PLANET
GEOLOGY
ICE
MARINER SPACE PROBES
STRATIGRAPHY
SURFACES
VIKING SPACE PROBES
PLANETS
SPACE VEHICLES
VEHICLES
640107* - Astrophysics & Cosmology- Planetary Phenomena