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Thermal history of Mars inferred from orbital geochemistry of volcanic provinces

Author

Listed:
  • David Baratoux

    (Université de Toulouse, UPS-OMP, IRAP
    CNRS, IRAP, 14 Avenue Edouard Belin)

  • Michael J. Toplis

    (Université de Toulouse, UPS-OMP, IRAP
    CNRS, IRAP, 14 Avenue Edouard Belin)

  • Marc Monnereau

    (Université de Toulouse, UPS-OMP, IRAP
    CNRS, IRAP, 14 Avenue Edouard Belin)

  • Olivier Gasnault

    (Université de Toulouse, UPS-OMP, IRAP
    CNRS, IRAP, 14 Avenue Edouard Belin)

Abstract

Martian convection made simple The γ-ray spectrometer onboard the Mars Odyssey spacecraft is providing a window on the evolution of magmatism on the planet. An analysis of geochemical data from twelve major volcanic provinces of variable age reveals clear trends in composition that are consistent with varying degrees of melting of the Martian mantle. Thickening of the lithosphere is associated with a decrease of mantle potential temperature over time. This work suggests that the thermal history of Mars is consistent with simple models of mantle convection, in contrast to the complex situation that prevails on Earth.

Suggested Citation

  • David Baratoux & Michael J. Toplis & Marc Monnereau & Olivier Gasnault, 2011. "Thermal history of Mars inferred from orbital geochemistry of volcanic provinces," Nature, Nature, vol. 472(7343), pages 338-341, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:472:y:2011:i:7343:d:10.1038_nature09903
    DOI: 10.1038/nature09903
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    Cited by:

    1. A. Lagain & G. K. Benedix & K. Servis & D. Baratoux & L. S. Doucet & A. Rajšic & H. A. R. Devillepoix & P. A. Bland & M. C. Towner & E. K. Sansom & K. Miljković, 2021. "The Tharsis mantle source of depleted shergottites revealed by 90 million impact craters," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 12(1), pages 1-9, December.

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