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Are fractures associated with soft slabs more likely to propagate long distances than those associated with hard slabs?

1) Yes
2) No

User Mikeschuld
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Soft slab fractures are more likely to travel long distances compared to hard slabs. The age of Fracture F relative to Craters B and S depends on their physical relationships. Safety considerations for landing a rover near Fracture F involve assessing if it is an active fault.

Step-by-step explanation:

Fractures associated with soft slabs are indeed more likely to propagate long distances than those associated with hard slabs. This happens because soft slab material has a lower strength and cohesion than hard slab material, which allows fractures to travel through it more easily.

Now, concerning the age comparison between Fracture F and Crater B, the principle of superposition can be applied if Fracture F cuts through Crater B. This would imply that Fracture F is younger because it has to exist to cut through an already formed feature.

Similar reasoning applies to the comparison between Fracture F and Crater S. If Fracture F disrupts the crater or its ejecta, Fracture F would be the younger feature.

Critical Thinking: In planning a rover landing to investigate Crater B, it would be safest to land in an area without disruption from fractures, especially if there's evidence to suggest that Fracture F is an active fault. Such activity could pose risks to the safe operation of the rover and its ability to successfully conduct scientific research.

User Jonathan DEKHTIAR
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