Abstract
ASTROCHEMISTRY H2O exists in two spin isomers, ortho and para, in a ratio of 3:1 at room temperature. Some astronomical observations have found water with a ratio of less than 3, thought to be due to water being photodesorbed from ice that had been formed at very low temperatures (≾30 K). Hama et al. tested this idea in the laboratory, by forming water ice at low temperature and then photodesorbing it to measure the ortho:para ratio. They found a ratio of 3, even at 10 K. Thus, another explanation for the low ratios in some astronomical objects must be found. Science , this issue p. [65][1] [1]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.aad4026
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
