Ions in grain mantles - the 4. 62 micron absorption by OCN(-) in W33A

Journal Article · Thu Oct 01 04:00:00 EDT 1987 · Astrophys. J.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/185012· OSTI ID:5662731

Grim, R J.A.; Greenberg, J M

The 4.62-micron absorption feature in W33A has been uniquely identified with the presence of OCN(-) ions in grain mantles. An extensive experimental study of the peak position and absorption strength of this band produced by UV photolysis of various isotopically labeled ices provided the strict criteria needed to eliminate all conceivable molecular candidates other than the cyanate ion OCN(-). The experiments provide further proof for the UV photoprocessing of interstellar mantles, leading not only to the formation of radicals and more complex molecules but to molecular ions and salts as well. The presence of ions in the solid phase has significant implications for chemical reaction schemes in low-temperature solids and interpretations of interstellar absorption spectra. 31 references.

• Research Organization: Leiden Rijksuniversiteit, Netherlands
• OSTI ID: 5662731
• Journal Information: Astrophys. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Astrophys. J.; (United States) Vol. 321; ISSN ASJOA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

640105* -- Astrophysics & Cosmology-- Galaxies
71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
ABSORPTION SPECTRA
CARBONIC ACID DERIVATIVES
CHARGED PARTICLES
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
CHEMICAL REACTIONS
CHEMISTRY
COSMOCHEMISTRY
CRYSTALS
CYANATES
DECOMPOSITION
INFRARED SPECTRA
INTERSTELLAR SPACE
IONS
MOLECULAR IONS
NITROGEN COMPOUNDS
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
PHOTOCHEMICAL REACTIONS
PHOTOLYSIS
SPACE
SPECTRA