Simulating physical weathering of basalt on Earth and Mars

Abstract

Despite its importance as a surficial rock type on Earth and other planets, few studies have been made of the response of basalt to physical weathering. Heating and cooling, with or without salts and moisture, may have severe impacts on basalt clasts in many extreme environments (Leask & Wilson, 2003). We report here on an integrated programme of simulations investigating physical weathering of basalt under Earth (hot desert) and Mars conditions using a Fison's Environmental Cabinet and a specially constructed Mars Environment Simulation Chamber.

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