Abstract
The formation of ketene (H2CCO, ethenone) in polar and apolar ices was studied with in situ 0.8 MeV proton irradiation, far-UV photolysis, and infrared spectroscopic analyses at 10-20 K. Using isotopically enriched reagents, unequivocal evidence was obtained for ketene synthesis in H 2O-rich and CO2-rich ices, and several reaction products were identified. Results from scavenging experiments suggested that ketene was formed by free-radical pathways, as opposed to acid-base processes or redox reactions. Finally, we use our results to draw conclusions about the formation and stability of ketene in the interstellar medium.
Original language | English (US) |
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Article number | 109 |
Journal | Astrophysical Journal |
Volume | 773 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Aug 20 2013 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- ISM: molecules
- astrobiology
- astrochemistry
- molecular data
- molecular processes
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Space and Planetary Science