Trihydrogen cations (H3+) are not commonly found in everyday life, but they may play a crucial role in star formation and chemical reactions in interstellar space. A new study has discovered alternative pathways for the formation of this molecule.
Researchers created trihydrogen by colliding hydrogen gas (H2) with ionized hydrogen (H2+). However, the study also found that trihydrogen can be formed through a different process involving doubly ionized organic molecules and cosmic rays. This unexpected pathway suggests that more methods are available to create H3+, which is one of the most common molecules in the universe.
According to Professor Marcos Dantus from Michigan State University, “Hydrogen is the most common element in the universe, so H2 meeting H2+ is still the key.” However, the researchers acknowledge that other organic molecules and processes may also contribute to trihydrogen formation. The study’s findings have implications for understanding how this molecule is produced, its abundance in the universe, and its role in chemical reactions.
The discovery was made possible by observing the behavior of halogens and pseudohalogens in interstellar clouds. These molecules can be doubly ionized by cosmic rays, which releases a hydrogen ion that then interacts with surrounding molecular hydrogen. The researchers found that this hydrogen ion did not immediately escape but instead stuck around for extended periods.
The study’s authors emphasize that while the alternative pathway is less common, it cannot be disregarded in understanding how H3+ is formed and its chemical properties. With their findings, the researchers aim to provide valuable insights for others seeking to identify sources of trihydrogen and the molecules involved in its formation.
Source: https://www.iflscience.com/molecule-that-made-the-universe-has-more-sources-than-we-thought-78036