Lab Photos (IMAGE) Aarhus University Caption This is a simulation of wind erosion on Mars. The quartz ampoule contains particles of olivine basalt and a Mars-like atmosphere. By shaking the ampoule, the researchers simulate wind-generated saltation, ie. that the wind causes the sand grains to make short jumps over the surface. The friction of the particles creates electrical charges, and the yellow star illustrates that an argon atom has lost an electron. The small electrical charges cause the particles to glow slightly, as illustrated in the four pictures to the right. Credit Mars Simulation Laboratory, Aarhus University Usage Restrictions Image may only be used with appropriate caption or credit. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.