A team of researchers is one step closer to understanding the geological mysteries surrounding the evolution of the Red Planet. A group of researchers from ETH Zurich analyzed data obtained by NASA's Mars InSight instrument and...
READING NOW One of the mysteries of Mars solved: Radioactive heat source discovered on planet
Great mystery of Mars solved by earthquake
The study led scientists to an interesting conclusion. The main source of heat produced in the planet’s interior appears to be the result of the time-consuming decay of radioactive elements such as thorium and uranium. While this may sound exotic, it actually means that the interior of the Red Planet relies in part on heat from the decay of radioactive elements to keep its core warm. Earth likewise uses the heat from this decay.
“These results mean that the Martian crust is much thicker than that of the Earth or Moon,” the statement said. The team also found that crustal density in the northern plains and southern highlands of the Red Planet is similar, a very exciting finding that, according to Kim, puts an end to the long-standing scientific debate about the origin and structure of Martian crust.
Mars looks more like Earth than thought
In particular, the fact that Mars’ internal heat source relies on decaying radioactive elements means that the Red Planet may look more like Earth than previously thought, since decaying radioactive elements are also part of Earth’s internal heat source. All these findings are among the most recent steps towards solving mysteries about the geology and history of the planet.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
Cookie
Duration
Description
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional
11 months
The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy
11 months
The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.