|
|
ACS ASTROCHEMISTRY SUBDIVISION |
|
|
|
The Subdivision
of Astrochemistry of the ACS Division of Physical Chemistry provides an
interdisciplinary "home" for individuals interested in
astrochemically related research via experiments, theory, observations, and
modeling. In addition, the Subdivision contributes to the programs of the
Division of Physical Chemistry in areas of special interest to Astrochemists.
We hope that this web site will be a resource for Subdivision members and for
those generally interested in the astrochemical aspects of chemistry.
Please let us know how we can make this site more useful to you by directing
your comments and suggestions for future officers as well as for forthcoming
astrochemistry symposia to the Chair, Chair-Elect, or Vice Chair. |
|||
|
|
Astrochemistry is the study of the abundances and
chemical reactions of atoms, molecules, and ions and how they interact with
radiation in the gas phase and in the condensed phase in Solar Systems and in
the Interstellar Medium (ISM) leading to the formation and breaking of chemical
bonds. This results in the formation of new molecules ranging from simple
diatomics such as molecular hydrogen to complex, astrobiologically important
organic molecules. Astrochemistry presents both an interdisciplinary and a
multidisciplinary field with ties to the traditional disciplines chemistry,
planetary science, chemical biology, physics, and astronomy. Here, chemistry,
defined as the change of matter is vital in unraveling the chemical and
astrobiological evolution of matter on the microscopic (elementary chemical
reactions) and also on the macroscopic level (planets, moons, interstellar
medium). |
||
|
Since the present composition of each macroscopic
environment reflects the matter from which it was formed and the chemical processes
which have changed the chemical nature since the origin, a detailed
investigation of the processes altering the chemical composition of the
pristine environment is critical to rationalize its contemporary makeup and
to understand its origin and chemistry. Astrochemistry exploits molecular
tracers to rationalize the origin and chemical evolution of the Interstellar
Medium and of Solar Systems by combining laboratory studies (chemical
dynamics and kinetics, spectroscopy), theoretical chemistry, astrochemical
modeling, astronomical observations, and space missions. This work requires a
concerted interdisciplinary relationship between chemists, physicists,
astronomers, chemical biologists, and planetary scientists. |
|
||
|
|
|
||
|
Objectives of the Astrochemistry Subdivision Division of Physical Chemistry ACS Astrochemistry Symposium Fall 2013 New Chemical Frontiers in Solar System
Exploration September 8-12, 2013, Indianapolis ACS Astrochemistry Symposium Spring 2014 Chemistry in the Interstellar Medium-New Frontiers
in the Laboratory, Theory, and Observations March 16-20, 2014, Dallas (speakers, abstract) Suggestions for forthcoming ACS Astrochemistry Symposia
|
|||
Officers,
2012-2013
Chair:
Ralf I. Kaiser, University of Hawaii
Chair-Elect:
Arthur Suits, Wayne State University
Vice-Chair:
Martin Head-Gordon, UC Berkeley
The views and opinions expressed in this page are
strictly those of the Subdivision of Astrochemistry. The contents of this page
have not been reviewed or approved by the American Chemical Society. The
Subdivision assumes all responsibility and liability for the content of its
pages.
|
|
|
|