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Updated: Jul 12, 2025
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Simulation of the Planetary Interior Differentiation Processes in the Laboratory
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Geophysical evidence for an enriched molten silicate layer above Mars's core.
Henri Samuel1, Mélanie Drilleau2, Attilio Rivoldini3
1Université Paris Cité, Institut de physique du globe de Paris, CNRS, Paris, France. samuel@ipgp.fr.
Nature
|October 25, 2023
Summary
Mars
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Seismology
- Geophysics
Background:
- Previous seismic data suggested a large Martian core (1,830 km).
- This core size implied light-element compositions inconsistent with experimental data.
- Anomalously slow seismic waves indicated a heterogeneous Martian mantle.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a heterogeneous mantle structure hypothesis for Mars.
- To reconcile geophysical data with core size and composition constraints.
- To determine the Martian core size and composition based on new models.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of seismic phases (reflected and diffracted S and P waves).
- Modeling of mantle structure, including a basal layer and molten silicate layers.
- Integration of seismic attenuation and tidal dissipation data.
Main Results:
- A heterogeneous mantle model fits all geophysical observations.
- The Martian core size is estimated at 1,650 km ± 20 km.
- This core size and density (6.5 g/cm³) require fewer light elements, aligning with constraints.
Conclusions:
- Mars likely possesses a layered mantle with a basal enriched layer.
- The revised core size and composition are geochemically plausible.
- External sources are needed to explain Mars's crustal magnetic field.
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