Estimates of eddy diffusion coefficient in the Mars' atmosphere

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R. RODRIGO
E. GARCÍA ÁLVAREZ
M. J. LÓPEZ GONZÁLEZ
M. A. LÓPEZ VALVERDE

Abstract

New calculations are presented on the eddy diffusion coefficient profile in the height range 30-200 km in Mars' atmosphere based on the integration of the coupled continuity and motion equations for atomic oxygen and carbon monoxide. Values in the range 2 x 107 - 4 x 108 cm2 s-1 are determined and are able to explain the observed altitude profiles of these compounds. The eddy diffusion coefficient altitude profile deduced is compatible with others reported in the literature and we discuss its effect upon the concentration of the different atmospheric constituents. The turbopause level is located between 130 and 140 km, the molecular diffusion being the fastest transport process at altitudes above 160 km.

 

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