New approaches to inferences for steep-sided domes on Venus

• We investigate the emplacement of steep-sided domes on the planet Venus.
• Two new theoretical models are applied to this problem.
• Constant volume and time-variable volume theoretical approaches are applied.
• Venus dome compositions may be consistent with basaltic andesite.

New mathematical approaches for the relaxation and emplacement of viscous lava domes are presented and applied to steep-sided domes on Venus. A similarity solution approach is applied to the governing equation for fluid flow in a cylindrical geometry for two distinct scenarios. In the first scenario, dome relaxation is explored assuming a constant volume of fluid (i.e. lava) has been rapidly emplaced onto the surface. Cooling of lava is represented by a time-variable viscosity and singularities inherent in previous models for dome relaxation have been eliminated. At the onset of relaxation, bulk dynamic viscosities lie in the range between 1010–1016 Pa s, consistent with basaltic-andesite to rhyolitic compositions. Plausible relaxation times range from 5 to 5000 years, depending on initial lava viscosity. The first scenario, however, is only valid during the final stages of dome relaxation and does not consider the time taken for lava to be extruded onto the surface.In the second scenario, emplacement and growth of a steep-sided dome is considered when the volume of lava on the surface increases over time (i.e. time-variable volume approach). The volumetric flowrate may depend on an arbitrary power of the dome thickness, thus embracing Newtonian as well as other rheologies for describing terrestrial and planetary mass flows. The approach can be used to distinguish between basic flowrate models for fluid emplacement. The formalism results in radial expansion of a dome proportional to t1/2, consistent with the diffusive nature of the governing equation. The flow at the front is shown to thicken as the front advances for a constant rate of lava supply. Emplacement times are intimately correlated with the bulk rheology. Comparison of the theoretical profiles with the shape of a typical dome on Venus indicates that a Newtonian bulk rheology is most appropriate, consistent with prior studies. However, results here suggest a bulk dynamic viscosity of 1012–1013 Pa s and emplacement times of approximately 2–16 years. Both scenarios investigated give emplacement times significantly less than prior estimates and compositions consistent with basaltic andesite.