What is the primary mechanism by which the solar wind eroded the Martian atmosphere after the magnetic shield failed?
Answer
Sputtering of atmospheric gases into space
Once the protective global magnetic field dissipated, the solar wind—a constant stream of charged particles emanating from the Sun—was able to directly interact with the upper layers of the Martian atmosphere. This interaction results in sputtering, a process where the solar wind particles impact atmospheric gases, effectively kicking molecules, including essential water vapor, out into space. NASA's MAVEN mission confirmed that this sputtering by the solar wind was a major contributor to atmospheric escape once the protective magnetic field was lost.
Related Questions
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