The utility of measurements of C-13/C-12 ratios in organic vs inorganic deposits for searching for signs of life on early Mars is considered. It is suggested that three assumptions are necessary. First, if there was life on Mars, it caused the fractionation of carbon isotopes in analogy with past biological activity on earth. Second, the fractionation would be detectable. Third, if a fractionation would be observed, there exist no abiotic explanations for the observed fractionation pattern.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Stable carbon isotope fractionation in the search for life on early Mars


    Contributors:


    Publication date :

    1989-01-01



    Type of media :

    Miscellaneous


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English


    Keywords :


    Stable carbon isotope fractionation in the search for life on early mars

    Rothschild, L.J. / DesMarais, D. | Elsevier | 1989



    Search for Extant Life on Mars

    C. Stoker | NTIS | 2022


    The Search for Life on Mars

    Mumma, Michael J. | NTRS | 2012


    The search for life on Mars

    Sagan, C. | NTRS | 1976