The case against UV photostimulated oxidation of magnetite

The kinetics of magnetite oxidation in O2-bearing atmospheres in the presence of electromagnetic radiation was studied. No perceptible oxidation of magnetite by ultraviolet (UV) photostimulation occurred. These results do not corroborate previous conclusions by Huguenin (1973, 1974) as to the occurrence of this process. Therefore, although the possibility that the process actually occurs cannot be ruled out, it is concluded that there is not yet a basis in laboratory experiments for inferring that UV photostimulated oxidation of magnetite occurs naturally on the surface of Mars.