The origin of organic matter in the Martian meteorite ALH84001

Other

Scientific paper

Rate now

  [ 0.00 ] – not rated yet Voters 0   Comments 0

Details

17

Scientific paper

Stable carbon isotope measurements of the organic matter associated with the carbonate globules and the bulk matrix material in the ALH84001 Martian meteorite indicate that two distinct sources are present in the sample. The δ13C values for the organic matter associated with the carbonate globules averaged -26‰ and is attributed to terrestrial contamination. In contrast, the δ13C values for the organic matter associated with the bulk matrix material yielded a value of -15‰. The only common sources of carbon on the Earth that yield similar δ13C values, other then some diagenetically altered marine carbonates, are C4 plants. A δ13C value of -15‰, on the other hand, is consistent with a kerogen-like component, the most ubiquitous form of organic matter found in carbonaceous chondrites such as the Murchison meteorite. Examination of the carbonate globules and bulk matrix material using laser desorption mass spectrometry (LDMS) indicates the presence of a high molecular weight organic component which appears to be extraterrestrial in origin, possibly derived from the exogenous delivery of meteoritic or cometary debris to the surface of Mars.

No associations

LandOfFree

Say what you really think

Search LandOfFree.com for scientists and scientific papers. Rate them and share your experience with other people.

Rating

The origin of organic matter in the Martian meteorite ALH84001 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 The origin of organic matter in the Martian meteorite ALH84001, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The origin of organic matter in the Martian meteorite ALH84001 will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

     

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1445753

  Search
All data on this website is collected from public sources. Our data reflects the most accurate information available at the time of publication.