Mathematics – Logic
Scientific paper
Dec 2004
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2004jgre..10912007s&link_type=abstract
Journal of Geophysical Research, Volume 109, Issue E12, CiteID E12007
Mathematics
Logic
11
Planetology: Solar System Objects: Mars, Planetology: Solid Surface Planets: Surface Materials And Properties, Geochemistry: Low-Temperature Geochemistry, Geochemistry: Organic Geochemistry, Mineralogy And Petrology: Sedimentary Petrology
Scientific paper
Life is composed of organic compounds, and characterizing preserved compounds provides insights into the presence of specific types of life, including early life on Earth. With growing evidence for a wet early Mars, excitement over the potential of an early Martian biosphere strongly motivates Mars exploration. However, the preservation potential of organic compounds in rocks on either Earth or Mars depends critically on mineralogy. Results from elemental, mineralogical, and morphological characterization of sedimentary rocks by the Opportunity rover team in the vicinity of the Challenger Memorial Station, Meridiani Planum, demonstrate an abundance of Fe(III) and sulfate minerals that formed from liquid water. The composition of these sedimentary rocks suggests that organic compounds are unlikely to be preserved within them, even if present when the rocks were deposited, based on comparisons with iron formation, acid lake deposits, and iron-containing concretions from Earth. No evidence consistent with the presence of organic compounds, such as the presence of Fe(II) minerals, has been reported from Meridiani Planum to date. Thus these Martian sedimentary rocks are not a good target to explore for organic compounds on Mars.
No associations
LandOfFree
Poor preservation potential of organics in Meridiani Planum hematite-bearing sedimentary rocks does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Poor preservation potential of organics in Meridiani Planum hematite-bearing sedimentary rocks, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Poor preservation potential of organics in Meridiani Planum hematite-bearing sedimentary rocks will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1085921