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Triton: stratospheric molecules and organic sediments
W R Thompson1, S K Singh, B N Khare
1Laboratory for Planetary Studies, Cornell University, USA.
Geophysical Research Letters
|August 1, 1989
Summary
Energetic particles create hydrocarbons and nitriles in Triton's atmosphere. Laboratory experiments show these molecules can form condensates, potentially impacting Triton's surface composition and haze layers.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Astrochemistry
- Atmospheric Chemistry
Background:
- Triton's stratosphere contains hydrocarbons and nitriles.
- These molecules are produced by energetic particles from Neptune's magnetosphere and other sources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate molecular production in Triton's atmosphere using laboratory plasma experiments.
- To determine the yield of molecules under simulated Triton surface conditions.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory plasma experiments simulating Triton's atmospheric conditions (low pressure CH4 in N2).
- Analysis of molecular yields and production rates under simulated magnetospheric electron flux.
Main Results:
- Substantial molecular yields, including ammonia (NH3), acetylene (C2H2), hydrogen cyanide (HCN), and dicyanogen (NCCN), were observed.
- Estimated molecular production rates range from 10(6)-10(8) cm-2 s-1.
- Formation of condensates in the lower stratosphere and surface sedimentation of organic compounds, including haze and heteropolymers.
Conclusions:
- Energetic particle interactions in Triton's stratosphere produce significant quantities of organic molecules.
- These molecules can form condensates and contribute to surface deposits and atmospheric haze.
- Abundances of key molecules like HCN and C2H2 are estimated, with potential detectability by the IRIS instrument.