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The composition of interstellar molecular clouds.

W M Irvine1

  • 1Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Massachusetts, Amherst 01003-4517, USA. irvine@fcrao1.phast.umass.edu

Space Science Reviews
|September 7, 2001
PubMed
Summary

Interstellar chemistry in star-forming regions like dark clouds and hot cores was compared to comets. Key aspects studied include molecular, isomer, ortho/para, and isotopic abundances, focusing on gas-phase chemistry.

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Area of Science:

  • Astrochemistry
  • Cometary Science
  • Star Formation

Background:

  • Interstellar chemistry provides insights into the composition of early solar system materials, including comets.
  • Understanding the chemical conditions during star and planet formation is crucial for deciphering solar system origins.
  • Comets serve as valuable archives of pristine material from the early solar system.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare interstellar gas-phase chemistry in different star-forming environments with the chemical composition of comets.
  • To investigate molecular abundances, isomer ratios (HCN/HNC), ortho/para ratios, and deuterium fractionation in interstellar clouds.
  • To assess the chemical link between interstellar molecular clouds and cometary composition.

Main Methods:

  • Focus on gas-phase chemical analysis within isolated dark clouds and hot cores.
  • Comparison of general molecular abundances, specific isomer ratios (HCN/HNC), ortho/para ratios, and hydrogen/deuterium isotopic fractionation.
  • Utilizing existing data and theoretical models for interstellar chemistry.

Main Results:

  • Analysis of molecular abundances in interstellar environments relevant to star formation.
  • Evaluation of isomer ratios, ortho/para ratios, and isotopic fractionation in gas-phase interstellar chemistry.
  • Identification of chemical similarities and differences between interstellar clouds and comets.

Conclusions:

  • Interstellar chemistry in various star-forming regions offers a baseline for understanding cometary composition.
  • Gas-phase chemical processes in dark clouds and hot cores significantly influence the molecular inventory available for comets.
  • Further detailed comparisons can refine models of solar system formation and evolution.
Keywords:
NASA Discipline ExobiologyNon-NASA Center

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