0

The Formation of Complex Molecules in Space

Description: This quiz is designed to assess your understanding of the formation of complex molecules in space. It covers topics such as the role of interstellar clouds, the chemistry of gas-phase reactions, and the formation of prebiotic molecules.
Number of Questions: 5
Created by:
Tags: astrochemistry interstellar chemistry complex molecules prebiotic molecules
Attempted 0/5 Correct 0 Score 0

Which of the following is NOT a type of interstellar cloud?

  1. Molecular cloud

  2. H II region

  3. Planetary nebula

  4. Supernova remnant


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Planetary nebulae are not interstellar clouds, but rather the expanding shells of gas and dust ejected by dying stars.

What is the primary mechanism for the formation of complex molecules in space?

  1. Gas-phase reactions

  2. Grain-surface reactions

  3. Photodissociation

  4. Cosmic rays


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Gas-phase reactions are the primary mechanism for the formation of complex molecules in space. These reactions occur between gas-phase atoms and molecules, and are driven by the high temperatures and densities found in interstellar clouds.

Which of the following is NOT a type of gas-phase reaction that can lead to the formation of complex molecules?

  1. Radiative association

  2. Ion-molecule reactions

  3. Neutral-neutral reactions

  4. Dissociative recombination


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Dissociative recombination is not a type of gas-phase reaction that can lead to the formation of complex molecules. Instead, it is a process in which a molecular ion recombines with an electron, resulting in the dissociation of the molecule.

What is the role of grain-surface reactions in the formation of complex molecules in space?

  1. They provide a surface for gas-phase reactions to occur

  2. They allow for the formation of molecules that are not possible in the gas phase

  3. They help to protect molecules from destruction by ultraviolet radiation

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Grain-surface reactions play a role in the formation of complex molecules in space by providing a surface for gas-phase reactions to occur, allowing for the formation of molecules that are not possible in the gas phase, and helping to protect molecules from destruction by ultraviolet radiation.

Which of the following is NOT a prebiotic molecule?

  1. Water

  2. Methane

  3. Ammonia

  4. Formaldehyde


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Formaldehyde is not a prebiotic molecule, as it is not found in significant quantities in the interstellar medium. The other three molecules, however, are all found in interstellar clouds and are thought to be essential for the formation of life.

- Hide questions