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Carbonaceous grain processing in space and in the laboratory
V Mennella1, L Colangeli, J R Brucato
1Osservatorio Astronomico di Capodimonte, Napoli, Italy.
Advances in Space Research : the Official Journal of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR)
|September 7, 2001
Summary
Laboratory simulations show that UV-irradiated hydrogenated amorphous carbon grains explain the interstellar extinction bump. These findings help interpret cosmic observations of carbonaceous grain evolution in space.
Area of Science:
- Astrochemistry
- Planetary Science
- Materials Science
Background:
- Carbonaceous grains are key components of interstellar dust.
- Understanding their evolution is crucial for interpreting astronomical observations.
- Laboratory simulations provide insights into space processing of these grains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate UV spectral changes in hydrogenated carbon grains.
- To determine the role of thermal annealing, UV irradiation, and ion bombardment.
- To identify the carriers of the interstellar UV extinction bump.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory simulations of carbonaceous grain processing.
- Analysis of UV spectral changes induced by various treatments.
- Modeling of optical properties based on electronic structure.
Main Results:
- Thermal annealing, UV irradiation, and ion bombardment alter grain properties.
- Small hydrogenated amorphous carbon grains with UV irradiation are identified.
- These grains match the characteristics of the UV interstellar extinction bump.
Conclusions:
- Hydrogenated amorphous carbon grains are responsible for the UV interstellar extinction bump.
- The study provides a framework for interpreting observations in diverse space environments.
- Laboratory simulations are vital for understanding interstellar dust evolution.