Cryogenic origin of fractionation between perchlorate and chloride under modern martian climate

Abstract

The high perchlorate (ClO4−) to chloride (Cl−) ratios observed at the Phoenix landing site, northern polar region of Mars, have been puzzling since detection. However, a lack of understanding of perchlorate-chloride-water systems under cryogenic conditions makes it difficult to assess ClO4−/Cl− ratios during deliquescence-related processes. Here we quantitatively evaluate ClO4−/Cl− fractionation in deliquescence-induced brines of magnesium- and calcium-perchlorate-chloride salt mixtures under subzero conditions, by measuring solubility data and constructing temperature-dependent thermodynamic models. We find that under specific relative humidity (RH) and temperature (T) conditions, deliquescence of perchlorate-chloride mixtures may form brines with fractionated ClO4−/Cl− signatures. Appropriate RH-T, water-limited conditions, and aeolian processes are required to produce and preserve the elevated ClO4−/Cl− signatures in soils. Under the present climate, the north polar region can support ClO4−/Cl− fractionation and potentially enrich perchlorate for longer periods on global Mars. This highlights the uniqueness of Mars’ arctic environment and its implications for modern habitability.