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The implications and limitations of the findings of the Viking organic analysis experimentThe gas chromatograph mass spectrometer instrument of the Viking mission has demonstrated the absence of organic compounds in the immediate surface layer of the two landing sites. The demonstration of the successful operation of the instrument (comparison of ground-based test data with those obtained during interplanetary flight and the data from the surface of the planet) and its limitations (e.g., the detection of highly cross-linked polymers or polymeric carbon suboxide) are reviewed. The measurements for bound water are based on indirect data, the detectability of evolved carbon dioxide and ammonia is poor, and oxygen, liberated from the soil samples, can not be detected.
Document ID
19800051889
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Biemann, K.
(MIT Cambridge, Mass., United States)
Date Acquired
August 10, 2013
Publication Date
December 1, 1979
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Molecular Evolution
Volume: 14
Subject Category
Space Biology
Accession Number
80A36059
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS1-9684
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7432
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGR-22-009-005
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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