Identification of Chlorobenzene in the Viking Gas Chromatograph‐Mass Spectrometer Data Sets: Reanalysis of Viking Mission Data Consistent With Aromatic Organic Compounds on Mars

摘要: Motivated by the recent detection of chlorobenzene Sample Analysis at Mars instrument suite on Curiosity rover, and identification its carbon source as indigenous to martian sample, we reexamined original, microfilm preserved, Viking gas chromatograph‐mass spectrometer (GCMS) data sets. We found evidence for presence in Lander 2 (VL‐2) levels corresponding 0.08‐1.0 ppb (relative sample mass), runs when was heated 350°C 500°C. Additionally, a correlation between temperature dependence signal dichloromethane originally identified GCMS team. considered possible sources that may have produced signal, reaction with perchlorate during pyrolysis, including organic parent contamination. conclude measured VL‐2 originated from chlorine sources. show how could originate though contributed background cannot yet be ruled out.