ORGANIC-PRODUCTS FROM THE GAMMA-RADIOLYSIS OF (CACO3)-C-14

gamma Irradiation of (CaCO3)-C-14, followed by aqueous dissolution of the irradiated solid, produces carbon-14-labelled formic acid and smal l quantities of oxalic, glyoxylic, glycolic and acetic acids. Traces o f formaldehyde are seen only at the highest absorbed doses. The yields of products from gamma irradiation are similar to those observed upon self-irradiation of (CaCO3)-C-14 The higher yields of glycolic and ac etic acids from gamma irradiation may result from the higher dose rate employed. These simple compounds, produced by irradiation of carbonat es, may have been a source of organic carbon on the Primitive Earth.