Icy interstellar dust grains are a source of complex organic molecule (COM) production, although their formation mechanisms are debated.
Interstellar Grains
Posted inAstrochemistry, Astronomy & Telescopes, Biochemistry & Organic Chemistry, Biophysics, Biosignatures & Paleobiology, Imaging & Spectroscopy, Interstellar, Status Report
Interstellar Chemistry of CN Radicals on Ices: The Formation of CH3CN and CH3NC and Potential Connection to Acetamide
Context. Among the most significant chemical functional groups of interstellar molecules are the class of nitriles, which are proposed as key prebiotic molecules due to their chemical connection to the […]
Posted inAstrochemistry, Astronomy & Telescopes, Biochemistry & Organic Chemistry, Biosignatures & Paleobiology, Imaging & Spectroscopy, Interstellar, Status Report
ALMA Observations of CH3COCH3 and the Related Species CH3CHO, CH3OH, and C2H5CN in Line-rich Molecular Cores
Context. Acetone (CH3COCH3) is a carbonyl-bearing complex organic molecule, yet interstellar observations of acetone remain limited. Studying the formation and distribution of CH3COCH3. in the interstellar medium can provide valuable […]
Posted inAstrochemistry
Spectropolarimetric Constraints on the Nature of Interstellar Grains
While it is well recognized that interstellar grains are made of amorphous silicates and some form of carbonaceous materials, it remains debated regarding what exact chemical and physical form the […]