What magnetic property characterizes stable, fully oxidized hematite ($ ext{Fe}_2 ext{O}_3$) on the Martian surface?
Answer
Effectively non-magnetic
The degree of iron oxidation directly influences the magnetic characteristics of the material. Metallic iron and magnetite ($ ext{Fe}_3 ext{O}_4$) are both highly magnetic, exhibiting strong ferromagnetic properties. However, hematite ($ ext{Fe}_2 ext{O}_3$), which represents the stable, fully oxidized state of iron on the Martian surface, is characterized as being effectively non-magnetic. The dominance of this non-magnetic rust across the crust is a significant piece of evidence, indicating that the surface iron has been thoroughly processed into its highest oxidation state, contrasting sharply with any potential preserved magnetic signatures.
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