NASA Scientists Discover Largest Organic Molecule on Mars

Scientists from the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) have discovered the largest organic molecules ever found on Mars, after analyzing rock samples collected from the planet.

The information was published on March 24 in the journal of the US National Academy of Sciences.

Specifically, the team analyzed pulverized rock samples collected by the Curiosity rover on Mars, and discovered the molecules decane, undecane, and dodecane.

These are compounds containing 10, 11, and 12 carbon atoms, respectively, believed to be fragments of fatty acids preserved in the specimen.

According to NASA, fatty acids are important components of organic compounds on Earth, playing a fundamental role in the biological structure of life.

Curiosity has previously detected small, simple organic molecules, but the appearance of larger compounds this time provides the first evidence that organic chemistry on Mars may have evolved to the level of complexity needed for life to form./.

(Vietnam+)

Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/cac-nha-khoa-hoc-nasa-phat-hien-phan-tu-huu-co-lon-nhat-tren-sao-hoa-post1022664.vnp