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The temperature of formation of carbonate in Martian meteorite ALH84001: constraints from cation diffusion

Conference ·
OSTI ID:9657

An important test of the hypothesis that Martian meteorite ALH84001 contains fossil remnants of an ancient Martian biota is the thermal history of the carbonate rosettes associated with the proposed biomarkers. If carbonates formed at temperatures over {approximately} 110 C (the limit for terrestrial life), it is unlikely that these minerals are associated with a terrestrial-like biota.

Research Organization:
Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (US)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Defense Programs (DP) (US)
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
9657
Report Number(s):
UCRL-JC-133070; YN0100000; 98-ERD-046; YN0100000; 98-ERD-046
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English