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Arsine in Saturn and JupiterNew spectra of Saturn and Jupiter are reported that show a prominent, heretofore unidentified absorption near 2126/cm. The observation is interpreted as unambiguous evidence for the presence of arsine, AsH3. The abundance of AsH3 appears to be almost a factor of two higher in Saturn than in Jupiter. The observed enrichments are consistent with the core instability model for the formation of giant planets. Models of arsenic chemistry that predict strong depletions of AsH3 at temperatures below 370 K are not consistent with the observations, suggesting that vertical convection or perhaps some other mechanism inhibits depletion. Arsenic is the first new element identified in a planetary atmosphere since germanium was found in Jupiter a decade ago.
Document ID
19890043838
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Noll, Keith S.
(Arizona, University Tucson, United States)
Geballe, T. R.
(Joint Astronomy Center Hilo, HI, United States)
Knacke, R. F.
(New York, State University Stony Brook, United States)
Date Acquired
August 14, 2013
Publication Date
March 15, 1989
Publication Information
Publication: Astrophysical Journal, Part 2 - Letters
Volume: 338
ISSN: 0004-637X
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
89A31209
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7286
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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