What advanced instrument often found on mobile laboratories like rovers determines elemental composition precisely?
Answer
Alpha particle X-ray spectrometers (APXS)
Rovers function as mobile laboratories, capable of driving to scientifically interesting locations for detailed geological investigation. While they carry general instruments like landers, their advanced capabilities include miniature laboratories for precise chemical measurements. Among these advanced tools are instruments like the Alpha particle X-ray spectrometer (APXS), which provides highly precise data regarding the elemental composition of specific targets, such as selected rocks or soils, which operators direct the robotic arm to place the instrument near.
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