Mercury's crust points to deeper, hotter volcanic origins than expected
Researchers from the Max Planck Institute have determined that Mercury's surface contains significantly less silicon dioxide than previously estimated. This finding suggests the planet's volcanic history was hotter and more complex than current models indicate.
Why it matters
Refining the chemical composition of planetary surfaces helps scientists better understand the formation and cooling processes of the early solar system.
edited by Gaby Clark , reviewed by Robert Egan
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