Researchers discover two complex molecules in space

William Atkins
Wednesday, 22 April 2009 19:21

Science - Space

However, they also state that the more complicated the structure of molecules found in interstellar space, the more likely they are to form in sections using basic patterns involving more simple molecules, such as methanol.

ScienceDaily.com states, “The computational models show that these sections, or ‘functional groups’, can add together efficiently, building up a molecular ‘chain’ in a series of short steps. The two newly-discovered molecules seem to be produced in this way.”

The researchers state that, based on the fact that such complex molecules form in a standardized manner, even more complex molecules may be present in interstellar space.

They will continue their work to find even more complex molecules, including amino acids, which are essential for life as we know it here on Earth.

The new newly discovered molecules are similar in size and complexity to amino acids.

Their work suggests that the materials necessary for life could exist in space even before stars and planets first formed.

Dr. Garrod stated, "It's the only formation method that is remotely able to reproduce the abundances and ratios that we see between the different sizes of molecules.... It certainly raises the possibility that you have many of the building blocks for life in space before even a planet is formed, which increases the chances for life to form, at least in my view." [Discovery News: "Complex Molecules Found in Milky Way's 'Sweet Spot'"]

The Max Planck Society press release "Tracking down organic molecules" adds more information about the discovery of these complex molecules in outer space.