Infrared laser photolysis: a new tool for the study of prebiotic chemistry.

Infrared laser induced dielectric breakdown and multiphoton absorption experiments on CH4/NH3 'atmospheres' are described. It is found that HCN, a central intermediate in prebiotic chemistry, is a principle product. This, combined with the fact that dielectric breakdown appears to have much in common with ordinary electric sparks, suggests that the laser could be a useful tool in studies of prebiotic chemistry. Several possible experiments in this vein are suggested.