Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
1775469 | Icarus | 2007 | 8 Pages |
Abstract
Estimates for the martian core formation timescale based on the hafnium–tungsten (Hf–W) isotopic system have varied by almost an order of magnitude, because of uncertainties in the martian mantle Hf/W ratio. Here we argue that the Hf/W ratio is ∼4 but is uncertain by ∼25%, resulting in (instantaneous) martian core formation timescales ranging from 0 to 10 Myr; accordingly, Hf–W isotope observations currently have limited utility in distinguishing between scenarios in which Mars formed as a stranded embryo and scenarios in which Mars suffered a prolonged accretion history.
Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering
Earth and Planetary Sciences
Space and Planetary Science
Authors
F. Nimmo, T. Kleine,