De Chemische Binding

Chemistry between the stars

Lecturer: 

Prof. Dr. Floris van der Tak (SRON Netherlands Institute for Space Research; Kapteyn Astronomical Institute, University of Groningen)

Abstract:

Astrochemistry is the study of molecular processes in space, with strong links to astrophysics and astrobiology. Chemical probes are essential to understand the formation of the first stars in the early universe, the origin of today's stars and planets, and the emergence of life on the early Earth. 

Vice versa, astrochemistry gives new insights into basic chemical processes, as the space between the stars provides us with conditions that cannot be reached in laboratories on Earth.

This lecture gives an overview of today's astrochemistry: basic gas-phase and grain surface reactions, the importance of various chemical processes under different astrophysical conditions, and what molecules tell us about the origin of stars, planets, and life.

 

Please login to view all participants