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Updated: Sep 13, 2025

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Solution structure of Titan-relevant aqueous ammonia by neutron diffraction
Mazin Nasralla1, Harrison Laurent1, Oliver L G Alderman2
1School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
Neutrons revealed ice-like structures in ammonia-water solutions, mimicking microscopic icebergs. This finding impacts understanding Titan
Area of Science:
- Astrobiology
- Planetary Science
- Physical Chemistry
Background:
- Titan's Selk crater may host interactions between molten ice and organics.
- Titan's subsurface ocean is potentially ammonia-rich, perturbing water's structure.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the structural effects of ammonia on liquid water.
- Inform NASA's Dragonfly mission to Titan.
Main Methods:
- Neutron scattering experiments.
- Studied 20.5 wt.% ammonia-water solutions at 273 K and 298 K.
Main Results:
- Observed ice-like motifs within the ammonia hydration shell.
- Results resemble 'microscopic icebergs' seen with non-polar solutes.
Conclusions:
- Ammonia significantly alters water's intermolecular structure.
- Findings have implications for Titan's aqueous chemistry and ocean worlds.
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