Experimental studies of atmosphere-surface interactions on Venus

Abstract

We review the sulfur cycle, oxidation state of the surface and near-surface atmosphere, and the decomposition rate of fossil hydrous minerals on the surface of Venus. For each of these chemical weathering processes we discuss what has been learned and what key questions remain unanswered. We focus on these three types of atmosphere-surface interactions because they appear to play major roles in determining the composition of the atmosphere, clouds, and the surface, e.g. by serving as a sink for SO 2, by controlling the extent and rate of basalt oxidation, or by acting as a sink/source for atmospheric water. Unfortunately, no direct mineralogical data exist for the Venusian surface. Currently, the only way to study atmospheric-surface chemistry on Venus is through laboratory experiments. The results from these experiments will help guide the design of future spacecraft experiments that could make direct mineralogical observations by using techniques such as XRB and/or imaging infrared reflectance spectroscopy. These experimental results along with direct mineralogical data could prove or invalidate models proposed over the years.