Organic and inorganic interpretations of the martian UV-IR reflectance spectrum

Details Organic and inorganic interpretations of the martian UV-IR reflectance spectrum Organic and inorganic interpretations of the martian UV-IR reflectance spectrum

Jan 1982

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1982natur.295...43p&link_type=abstract

Nature, Volume 295, Issue 5844, pp. 43-46 (1982).

Mathematics

Logic

13

Scientific paper

Although some data from the Viking Lander biology experiments can be interpreted as indicative of biological activity, the existence of organisms in the martian soil samples is considered unlikely because of the non-detection of organic compounds in the sample1. Viking gas chromatography-mass spectrometer analysis detected no organic molecules above a concentration of parts per 109 (ref. 2). We consider here why no organic molecules were detected at the landing sites, whether the sterility of the two sites is representative of the entire planet and if there are locations on Mars more conducive to the formation and preservation of organics. We first simulate the destruction of organic compounds in Mars-like laboratory conditions, and then examine whether the destructive mechanism would operate planetwide; and second re-examine UV and IR reflectance spectra of Mars for any evidence of organic molecules, and in doing so set an upper limit on the organic carbon content of average martian soil. The results reveal that the average martian soil is organic-poor and makes an unfavourable habitat for life forms based on carbon chemistry. There is no reason to believe that organic molecules are preferentially preserved anywhere on the planet.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Organic and inorganic interpretations of the martian UV-IR reflectance spectrum 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 Organic and inorganic interpretations of the martian UV-IR reflectance spectrum, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Organic and inorganic interpretations of the martian UV-IR reflectance spectrum will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1457659