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Optical properties of poly-HCN and their astronomical applicationsMatthews (1992) has proposed that HCN "polymer" is ubiquitous in the solar system. We apply vacuum deposition and spectroscopic techniques previously used on synthetic organic heteropolymers (tholins), kerogens, and meteoritic organic residues to the measurement of the optical constants of poly-HCN in the wavelength range 0.05-40 micrometers. These measurements allow quantitative comparison with spectrophotometry of organic-rich bodies in the outer solar system. In a specific test of Matthews' hypothesis, poly-HCN fails to match the optical constants of the haze of the Saturnian moon, Titan, in the visible and near-infrared derived from astronomical observations and standard models of the Titan atmosphere. In contrast, a tholin produced from a simulated Titan atmosphere matches within the probable errors. Poly-HCN is much more N-rich than Titan tholin.
Document ID
20040121338
Acquisition Source
Headquarters
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Khare, B. N.
(Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14853, United States)
Sagan, C.
Thompson, W. R.
Arakawa, E. T.
Meisse, C.
Tuminello, P. S.
Date Acquired
August 22, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1994
Publication Information
Publication: Canadian journal of chemistry
Volume: 72
ISSN: 0008-4042
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: DE-ACO5-84OR 21400
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-3273
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-1870
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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