CO2 cycle

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Abstract

This chapter discusses the use of models, observations, and laboratory experiments to understand the cycling of CO2 between the atmosphere and seasonal Martian polar caps. This cycle is primarily controlled by the polar heat budget, and thus the emphasis here is on its components, including solar and infrared radiation, the effect of clouds (water- and CO2-ice), atmospheric transport, and subsurface heat conduction. There is a discussion about cap properties including growth and regression rates, albedos and emissivities, grain sizes and dust and/or water-ice contamination, and curious features like cold gas jets and araneiform (spider-shaped) terrain. The nature of the residual south polar cap is discussed as well as its long-term stability and ability to buffer atmospheric pressures. There is also a discussion of the consequences of the CO2 cycle as revealed by the non-condensable gas enrichment observed by Odyssey and modeled by various groups.
Publication type Book chapter
Publication Subtype Book Chapter
Title CO2 cycle
DOI 10.1017/9781139060172.012
Year Published 2017
Language English
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Contributing office(s) Astrogeology Science Center
Description 31 p.
Larger Work Type Book
Larger Work Subtype Monograph
Larger Work Title The atmosphere and climate of Mars
First page 374
Last page 404
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