Scientists have detected ethylene glycol and glycolonitrile, two molecules linked to DNA and amino acids, in a planet-forming disk around the star V883 Orionis. This discovery suggests that planets may inherit their building blocks for life directly from their cosmic nursery.
The detection was made using the ALMA telescope during a rare stellar outburst. The molecules were found at temperatures of 80°F and -300°F, respectively, and were present in substantial concentrations. These findings imply that complex organic molecules could be built up during planet formation, rather than being destroyed by it.
If planet-forming disks routinely develop these molecules, many planets may start their existence with the necessary components for life to emerge. This study challenges the traditional view of life’s emergence as a rare cosmic event and suggests that the chemical environment in which planets are born could play a key role in its development.
The researchers used ALMA data from six observation sessions between 2021 and 2022 to detect the molecules. The team was unable to confirm glycolaldehyde, but their findings have implications for understanding the origins of life in the universe.
Source: https://studyfinds.org/scientists-may-have-found-lifes-building-blocks-planet-forming-disk