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Organic chemistry in the atmosphereThe existence of an at least moderately complex organic chemistry on Titan is stipulated based on clear evidence of methane, and at least presumptive evidence of hydrogen in its atmosphere. The ratio of methane to hydrogen is the highest of any atmosphere in the solar system. Irradiation of hydrogen/methane mixtures produces aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons. A very reasonable hypothesis assumes that the red cloud cover of Titan is made of organic chemicals. Two-carbon hydrocarbons experimentally produced from irradiated mixtures of methane, ammonia, water, and hydrogen bear out the possible organic chemistry of the Titanian environment.
Document ID
19740012379
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Sagan, C. (NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 7, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1974
Publication Information
Publication: The Atmos. of Titan
Subject Category
Space Sciences
Accession Number
74N20492
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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