Modeling cosmic-ray-driven grain chemistry in the JWST era
Abstract
The upcoming launch of JWST promises to mark the beginning of an astrochemical ``ice age.'' In this new era, chemical models will be essential, both for planning observations and interpreting data. Most astrophysical ices, though, are bombarded by a continuous flux of ionizing particles, particularly cosmic rays, stellar winds, and radionuclide emission. A growing body of work has now shown that such irradiation can drive a host of physicochemical processes that are efficient even under ISM conditions, and therefore, a consideration of these effects in astrochemical models will likely result in significant improvements in their ability to support the JWST science mission. Here, I review my recent work in this area, with a focus on both (a) the key role of laboratory astrophysics data in helping to improve how astrochemical models simulate grain processes, and (b) the effects of such modifications on predicted abundances of COMs and other species in interstellar regions.
- Publication:
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43rd COSPAR Scientific Assembly. Held 28 January - 4 February
- Pub Date:
- January 2021
- Bibcode:
- 2021cosp...43E1969S