Secondary craters and ejecta across the solar system: Populations and effects on impact‐crater–based chronologies

• DOI: 10.1111/maps.13057
• Publication Date: 2018-03-09T07:08:48Z
• Authors: E. B. Bierhaus; A. S. McEwen; S. J. Robbins; K. N. Singer; L. Dones; M. R. Kirchoff; J.‐P. Williams
• Keywords: Scaling law

Abstract We review the secondary‐crater research over past decade, and provide new analyses simulations that are first to model an accumulation of a combined primary‐plus‐secondary crater population as discrete cratering events. develop secondary populations by using scaling laws generate ejecta fragments, integrating trajectories individual noting location velocity at impact, estimate diameters given impact conditions. also explore relationship between impactor size–frequency distribution ( SFD ) resulting . Our results from these indicate “secondary effect” varies surface no single conclusion applies across solar system nor any moment in time—rather, there is spectrum outcomes both spatially temporally, dependent upon target parameters impacting population. Surface gravity escape speed define spatial secondaries. A shallow‐sloped will cause proportionally more secondaries than steeper‐sloped Accounting for driving factors magnitude essential determine relative craters, their effect on derived ages.