Radiolysis of Aqueous Methane Solutions

Authors: G.C. Stevens, R.M. Clarke, E.J. Hart The gamma-ray and electron pulse irradiation of aqueous methane and some ethane solutions is reported. The ab- sorption spectra of the CH3 and C2H5 free radicals have been measured in the wavelength range 210-270 nm. At 210 nm e(CH3) = 850 M-1 cm-1 and e(C2Hs) = 520 M-1 cm-1. The bimolecular recombination rate…

Galactic Cosmic Rays and N2 Disassociation on Titan

Authors: L.A. Capone, J. Dubach, S.S. Prasad, R.C. Whitten The electromagnetic and particle cascade resulting from the absorption of galactic cosmic rays in the atmosphere of Titan is shown to be an important mechanism for driving the photochemistry at pressures of 1 to 50 mbar in the atmosphere. In particular, the cosmic ray cascade dissociates N2, a process necessary for…