The Composition of the Regolith on Mars

What is the dominant component of the regolith on Mars?

A. Volcanic ash from geologically recent eruptions.

B. Basaltic lava pulverized by meteoritic bombardment.

C. Iron-rich clay.

D. Concrete from ancient canals, pulverized by meteoritic bombardment.

Answer:

The regolith on Mars is most likely made up of basaltic lava that has been pulverized by meteoritic bombardment.

The dominant component of the regolith on Mars is likely B. basaltic lava pulverized by meteoritic bombardment. The Martian surface is characterized by extensive basaltic terrain, with much of Mars covered in plains formed from basaltic lava resembling those found on the Moon's lunar maria. Additionally, the Tharsis region's volcanic activity is well-documented with the existence of huge volcanoes such as Olympus Mons. It is known that most Martian meteorites found on Earth are volcanic basalts and are relatively young, dating back to about 1.3 billion years.

Mars rovers and landers, like Vikings 1 and 2 and Mars Pathfinder, have also observed that nearly all rocks on Mars are of volcanic origin, and areas flooded in the past feature sedimentary rock layers formed in water's presence. This suggests the presence of basalts not only in meteorites but also covering the Martian landscape. Therefore, considering the extensive plains of basaltic composition and documented meteorite evidence, the regolith on Mars is most likely a result of pulverized basaltic lava due to meteoritic bombardment.