Interpretation of the 3- to 4-Micron Infrared Spectrum of Mars

Infrared reflection spectra have been recorded for a large number of inorganic and organic samples, including minerals and biological specimens, for the purpose of interpreting the 3- to 4-micron spectrum of Mars. A previous suggestion that the Martian bands indicated the presence of carbohydrates is shown not to be a required conclusion. However, no satisfactory explanation is advanced and the problem remains unresolved.