The composition of the martian atmosphere was determined by the mass spectrometer in the molecular analysis experiment. The presence of argon and nitrogen was confirmed and a value of 1 to 2750 +/- 500 for the ratio of argon-36 to argon-40 was established. A preliminary interpretation of these results suggests that Mars had a slightly more massive atmosphere in the past, but that much less total outgassing has occurred on Mars than on Earth.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Owen et al. (1976) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 3 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: