Scientists Detect Ethylene Glycol and glycolonitrile in Protoplanetary Disk PDS 70
Atacama Desert, Chile – April 10, 2024 – In a groundbreaking finding, an international team of astronomers has detected the presence of ethylene glycol and glycolonitrile, complex organic molecules, within the protoplanetary disk surrounding the young star PDS 70, located approximately 370 light-years away in the constellation Scorpius. This finding, published in Nature Astronomy on April 9, 2024, provides new insights into the chemical complexity of planet-forming regions and the potential building blocks for life.
The observations were made using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), a powerful radio telescope operated by the European Southern observatory (ESO) and partners. ALMA’s high sensitivity and resolution allowed researchers to identify the unique spectral signatures of these molecules within the disk’s ice component. The molecules are believed to be released as the ice sublimates due to the star’s radiation.
“These molecules are vital precursors to sugars, amino acids, and other compounds essential for life as we certainly know it,” explained Dr.Alice Schwarz of the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE) in Garching, Germany, lead author of the study. “Finding them in a protoplanetary disk suggests that the chemical ingredients for life could be readily available during planet formation.”
Ethylene glycol, commonly known as antifreeze, and glycolonitrile are considered relatively complex molecules.Their detection indicates that the chemical processes within protoplanetary disks are more advanced than previously thought. The team focused on a region within the PDS 70 disk approximately 89 astronomical units (AU) from the star – roughly the distance between the Sun and Pluto. This region is cold enough for these molecules to remain frozen in ice.
Laboratory experiments conducted by Dr. Tushar Suhasaria, Head of the Laboratory of the Origin of Life at MPE, further support the findings. These experiments demonstrated that ethylene glycol can form through the ultraviolet (UV) irradiation of ethanolamine,a molecule previously detected in interstellar space. This suggests multiple pathways for the formation of these complex organic molecules.
The research team acknowledges that the spectral signals detected are not yet fully understood.Higher-resolution data, planned for future observations with ALMA, will be crucial for confirming the presence of these molecules and perhaps identifying even more complex compounds. Further inquiry into other electromagnetic spectrums may also reveal additional evolved molecules.
“This is just the beginning,” stated Dr. Fadul, a co-author of the study. “We are continuing to analyze the data and explore new avenues for understanding the chemical environment of planet-forming disks.”
Related: What we can learn from the absence of life outside the earth
