EarthRef.org Reference Database (ERR)
Development and Maintenance by the EarthRef.org Database Team

Detailed Reference Information
Senshu et al. 2002
Senshu, H., Kuramoto, K. and Matsui, T. (2002). Thermal evolution of a growing Mars. Journal of Geophysical Research 107: doi: 10.1029/2001JE001819. issn: 0148-0227.

We developed a new numerical model which can simulate the thermal history and metal-silicate separation of a growing Mars. In this model the thermal disturbance caused by planetesimal impacts is calculated for each impact event by taking into account the effects of shock heating, crater excavation, and isostatic rebound. A metallic blob is assumed to form at the base of a magma pond if an impact site is heated above the melting temperature. Sinking of the metal blobs is traced assuming Stokes' velocity. Their coalescence during sinking is treated by a Monte Carlo approach. A series of simulations is carried out assuming that Mars is formed by the runaway growth from a swarm of planetesimals as was suggested by recent numerical simulations of the planetary accretion process. Our numerical results show that (1) no global magma ocean is formed during accretion, (2) metal-silicate separation takes place without global scale melting, and (3) instead of a metallic core, a metal-rich layer is formed at the late stage of accretion.

BACKGROUND DATA FILES

Abstract

Keywords
Planetary Sciences, Impact phenomena (includes cratering), Planetary Sciences, Interiors, Planetary Sciences, Origin and evolution, Planetology, Solar System Objects, Mars
Journal
Journal of Geophysical Research
http://www.agu.org/journals/jb/
Publisher
American Geophysical Union
2000 Florida Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009-1277
USA
1-202-462-6900
1-202-328-0566
service@agu.org
Click to clear formClick to return to previous pageClick to submit