On the chemical composition of Titan's dry lakebed evaporites
arXiv:1308.4856 · doi:10.1016/j.icarus.2013.07.026
Abstract
Titan, the main satellite of Saturn, has an active cycle of methane in its troposphere. Among other evidence for a mechanism of evaporation at work on the ground, dry lakebeds have been discovered. Recent Cassini infrared observations of these empty lakes have revealed a surface composition poor in water ice compared to that of the surrounding terrains --- suggesting the existence of organic evaporites deposits. The chemical composition of these possible evaporites is unknown. In this paper, we study evaporite composition using a model that treats both organic solids dissolution and solvent evaporation. Our results suggest the possibility of large abundances of butane and acetylene in the lake evaporites. However, due to uncertainties of the employed theory, these determinations have to be confirmed by laboratory experiments.
Icarus, in press
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- Where does Titan Sand Come From: Insight from Mechanical Properties of Titan Sand Candidates
- Radar scattering of linear dunes and mega-yardangs: Application to Titan
- Distribution and intensity of water ice signature in south Xanadu and Tui Regio
- Experimental Study of Ethylene Evaporites under Titan Conditions
- Vertical compositional variations of liquid hydrocarbons in Titan's alkanofers
- Science goals and new mission concepts for future exploration of Titan's atmosphere geology and habitability: Titan POlar Scout/orbitEr and In situ lake lander and DrONe explorer (POSEIDON)