Atomic and molecular astrophysics facts for kids

Atomic and molecular astrophysics are exciting fields in astrophysics. They help us understand the universe by studying tiny particles. These particles are atoms and molecules. Scientists learn about space objects by looking at the light they send out. This light comes from changes happening within atoms and molecules.

Atomic Astrophysics: Reading Starlight

What is Atomic Astrophysics?

Atomic astrophysics uses atomic physics to study space. It helps astronomers understand the light from stars and galaxies. This field uses special calculations. These calculations help interpret what astronomers see. The light from space objects is our only clue about them. This light is created by tiny changes inside atoms.

Within a few million years the light from bright stars will have boiled away this molecular cloud of gas and dust. The cloud has broken off from the Carina Nebula. Newly formed stars are visible nearby, their images reddened by blue light being preferentially scattered by the pervasive dust. This image spans about two light years and was taken by the orbiting Hubble Space Telescope in 1999.

Molecular Astrophysics: Molecules in Space

Studying Molecules in the Universe

Molecular astrophysics looks at molecules in space. This field became a strong area of study in 1967. It was developed by Alexander Dalgarno. He was a theoretical astrochemist. Scientists study the light that molecules give off. This light helps us learn about them.

Molecules and Their Homes

There are 110 known types of molecules in space. These molecules have many ways to give off light. We can also see them by how they absorb light. For example, some lines are seen against a distant quasar. Strong light, like ultraviolet light, can break molecules apart. So, molecules are usually found in cooler places in space.

Giant Molecular Clouds

The biggest objects in our galaxy are huge clouds. They are made of molecules and dust. These are called giant molecular clouds. Stars and planets are born inside these clouds. Studying how stars and planets form is a main goal of molecular astrophysics.

Where Else Are Molecules Found?

Molecules can be found in many places. This includes the atmospheres of stars. They are also in the atmospheres of moons around planets. Most of these places are quite cool. We can best study molecular light when molecules change their energy states. This happens when they give off photons.

Carbon Monoxide: A Key Molecule

One important molecule is carbon monoxide (CO). It is made of carbon and oxygen. It is very stable. When a CO molecule drops to its lowest energy state, it sends out a photon. This photon has a wavelength of 2.6 millimeters. This is 115 gigahertz. This frequency is much higher than FM radio.

Challenges for Telescopes

At these high frequencies, Earth's atmosphere can block signals. Water in the air is a big blocker. So, telescopes must be in dry, high places. Radio telescopes also need very smooth surfaces. This helps them create clear images.

PAHs: Building Blocks of Life?

What Are PAHs?

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are special molecules. They are found throughout the universe. On February 21, 2014, NASA updated a database for tracking PAHs. Scientists believe that over 20% of the carbon in the universe might be in PAHs.

PAHs and Life

PAHs might be the starting materials for life. They seem to have formed soon after the Big Bang. They are found everywhere. PAHs are also linked to new stars and exoplanets.

See also