Abstract
PLANETARY probes have confirmed temperatures of the order of 700 K for the surface of Venus1,2. Given the similarities of the radii and densities of Venus and Earth, it is a reasonable assumption that the two planets have similar overall compositions3. Although the upper lithosphere of Venus should therefore have evolved in a manner roughly parallel to Earth's upper lithosphere4, it is interesting to consider what modifications may have been imposed on this evolution by the high temperatures. I shall consider particularly the effect on magmatic differentiation, isostatic adjustments and surface relief.
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MUELLER, R. Effect of Temperature on the Strength and Composition of the Upper Lithosphere of Venus. Nature 224, 354–356 (1969). https://doi.org/10.1038/224354a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/224354a0
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