Chemistry and Petrology of Venus: Preliminary Deductions

Abstract

Recent measuremnents of the temperature of Venus suggest that a chemical interaction between the atmosphere and lithosphere may occur: the possible consequences of such interaction are examined. Results indicate that metallic iron, free carbon, and magnesium carbonates should not occur on the surface of Venus. Calcium carbonate, iron oxides and certain hydrous silicates may be present, but other hydrous silicates seem to be excluded. The effects of the physicochemical conditions on rock types and the various planetary processes are discussed.