Life
  Definition of Life
  Fossils
  Martian Meteorite

Data Analysis
  Thin Section Analysis
  Isotope Analysis
  Gas Chromatograph Mass Spectrometer
  Infrared Spectroscopy
  Alpha-Proton X-Ray Spectrometer
  Detection of Carbon Complexes
  Labeled Release
  Gas Exchange
  Pyrolytic Release
  Stimulus Response Experiments

Infrared Spectroscopy is another important tool for organic chemical analysis and structural identification. An IR spectrum is produced by absorption of energy (4000-400 cm-1) due to vibrations of polar covalent bonds. 

Positive: The IR spectrum of the unknown compound can be compared to tables of functional groups to determine structure. A structure indicative of compounds contained only in life samples would be a positive. A structure sometimes indicative of life would require further testing. 

Negative: An identifiable structure characteristic of inorganic life. 

False-Positive: A structure sometimes indicative of life could be a false-positive, but again, further testing would clarify.