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,, 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 XRD
and/or imaging infrared reflectance spectroscopy. These experimental
results along with direct mineralogical data could prove or invalidate
models proposed over the years. (C) 2002 COSPAR. Published by Elsevier
Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
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