Melas Chasma Deposits

Erosion of the interior layered deposits (ILD) of Melas Chasma, part of the huge Valles Marineris canyon system, has produced cliffs with dramatic examples of spur-and-gulley erosional morphology. Various erosional mechanisms provide beautiful exposures of finely layered sediments within Melas Chasma. Erosion is the wearing away or movement of materials from one place to another. The most common causes of movement / erosion include gravity, water, ice and wind.