For decades, scientists have believed that liquid water once shaped Mars’ surface. However, new research suggests that liquid carbon dioxide may have played a significant role in sculpting the Red Planet. These findings could fundamentally alter our understanding of Mars’ geological history.
By Sadie Watkins
Water or Carbon Dioxide?
Mars’ massive outflow channels, ancient riverbeds, and lake formations closely resemble water-shaped structures on Earth. For years, it seemed obvious that liquid water carved these features. Yet, a new study proposes that liquid carbon dioxide, under the dense atmosphere of early Mars, could have created similar surface changes. Researchers caution that focusing solely on Earth-like water processes might have caused alternative scenarios to be overlooked.
Chemical Processes on Mars
Research on carbon sequestration suggests that liquid carbon dioxide, particularly when mixed with brines, reacts with minerals to form carbonates. These processes could have occurred under early Martian conditions, resulting in minerals such as phyllosilicates and sulfates—exactly the types found on Mars today. This evidence indicates that liquid carbon dioxide may have played a crucial role in the planet’s geologic evolution.
A Dynamic Interplay of Elements
Scientists argue that Mars’ surface features were not shaped by a single, stable warm and wet climate. Instead, they suggest a combination of water and carbon dioxide briefly, unstable periods may have contributed to its unique geology. Subsurface reservoirs or rivers beneath carbon dioxide glaciers might also have helped form the landscape. This broader perspective opens up exciting new avenues for Mars research.
A New Piece of the Puzzle
The question of how liquid water or carbon dioxide shaped Mars remains one of the greatest challenges in planetary science. Researchers emphasize the need to think beyond traditional assumptions and explore multiple scenarios. “There’s likely no simple answer,” says NASA scientist Michael Hecht. “We’re just adding another piece to the puzzle.”
The possibility that liquid carbon dioxide helped shape Mars’ surface offers a groundbreaking perspective on the planet’s geological history. By exploring interactions between water, carbon dioxide, and Martian minerals, scientists can uncover new clues about the planet’s evolution. These insights may prove critical in understanding Mars’ past climate and its potential for hosting life.
Based on content from space.com and own research.