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A model of Martian surface chemistryAlkaline earth and alkali metal superoxides and peroxides, gamma-Fe2O3 and carbon suboxide polymer, are proposed to be constituents of the Martian surface material. These reactive substances explain the water modified reactions and thermal behaviors of the Martian samples demonstrated by all of the Viking Biology Experiments. It is also proposed that the syntheses of these substances result mainly from electrical discharges between wind-mobilized particles at Martian pressures; plasmas are initiated and maintained by these discharges. Active species in the plasma either combine to form or react with inorganic surfaces to create the reactive constituents.
Document ID
19800051899
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Oyama, V. I.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Berdahl, B. J.
(NASA Ames Research Center Extraterrestrial Research Div., Moffett Field, Calif., 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
80A36069
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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