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Detection of the quadrupole hyperfine structure in HCNH(+)We report the first measurement of the electric quadrupole hyperfine structure of HCNH(+). The J = 1-0 transition of this interstellar molecular ion was observed toward the cold, dark cloud TMC-1, using the NRAO 12 m telescope at 74 GHz. The three hyperfine components of this transition were clearly detected and resolved, enabling the first experimental determination of the quadrupole coupling constant eqQ of HCNH(+). The value of this constant is calculated to be eqQ = -0.49 +/- 0.07 MHz. The column density of HCNH(+) toward TMC-1 was found to be N(tot) about 2.8 x 10 exp 13/sq cm, corresponding to a fractional abundance relative to H2 of f about 3 x 10 exp -9. This abundance is at least one order of magnitude higher than the predictions of ion-molecule chemistry. Detection of the hyperfine structure clearly establishes the presence of HCNH(+) in interstellar space.
Document ID
19930026528
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Ziurys, L. M.
(NASA Headquarters Washington, DC United States)
Apponi, A. J.
(NASA Headquarters Washington, DC United States)
Yoder, J. T.
(Arizona State Univ. Tempe, United States)
Date Acquired
August 15, 2013
Publication Date
October 1, 1992
Publication Information
Publication: Astrophysical Journal, Part 2 - Letters
Volume: 397
Issue: 2
ISSN: 0004-637X
Subject Category
Astrophysics
Accession Number
93A10525
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSF AST-91-10701
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSF AST-90-58467
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-2989
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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