A semi-empirical model for thermal decomposition of carbonates and its application to astrobiology

Abstract

We review the basis of a semi-empirical model of carbonate decomposition developed by the authors, shortly discussing numerous previous theories. Then, the model is applied to the modeling of a scenario of matter transport from space to the surface of planets embedded into sub-mm mineral grains, with the correction of the so-called additional enthalpy, coming from the experiments. Having magnesium and calcium carbonates as mineral phases and the atmosphere of Earth and Mars as environments, the chemical-physical history of grains entering at different angles and speeds is discussed. The results are compared with those obtained previously and new evaluations of the most promising scenarios are formulated. Graphical abstract