The organic chemistry and biology of the atmosphere of the planet Jupiter

Abstract

In order to understand the chemical processes which may be taking place in the Jovian atmosphere, we have conducted a number of simulation experiments in the laboratory. These reactions appear to be significant for our understanding of chemical evolution and the nature and origin of organic matter in the universe. Mixtures of methane and ammonia in varying proportions have been exposed to electric discharges and the products analyzed. We have found that, as the methane and ammonia disappear, hydrogen cyanide and acetylene are to be built up. The analysis of the volatiles has also provided us with a wide range of aminonitriles. It is conceivable that some of these nitriles, on hydrolysis, will give rise to amino acids. On cyclization, some of them would provide the pathways for the origin of pyrimidines. A characteristic result of these reactions has also been the appearance of a red polymer which may have a bearing on the color in the red spots of Jupiter. Spectral analysis in the laboratory may provide some clues in our search for organic material in the Jovian atmosphere by orbiting spacecraft, or ground-based observations.