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Characterization of neutral sulfur reactions at low temperatures: An investigation of Europa’s subsurface ice composition
Mata, Rory Steinert, Ryan M.
Mata, Rory
Steinert, Ryan M.
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2024-04-12
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Mata, Rory; Steinert, Ryan. 2024. Characterization of neutral sulfur reactions at low temperatures: An investigation of Europa’s subsurface ice composition. -- In Proceedings: 23rd Annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Forum. Wichita, KS: Wichita State University, p. 32.
Abstract
Europa, one of the four Galilean moons of Jupiter, has been under increasing scrutiny in recent years due to the possibility of the existence of life in its subsurface ocean and the detection of key elements on its surface, including sulfur. Sulfur has been detected in various compounds on Europa through the Galileo mission, but the question of its origin remains unsolved. Currently it is unknown if the sulfur is indigenous to Europa or if its source is the nearby moon Io, where there is known to be a large amount of sulfur in many forms. The aim of this investigation is to model a plausible characterization of neutral sulfur reactions in conditions relevant to the subsurface ice of Europa through the use of density functional theory calculations to determine activation energy barriers of critical reactions in the sulfur cycle. Thus far, optimizations of structures and transition state structures have been performed for a reaction similar to those of interest in terms of charge, size, and elemental composition in order to confirm our methodology against a previously calculated standard. Next steps include additional optimizations and intrinsic reaction coordinate calculations, as well as a transition into the solid phase. Looking further forward, computational chemistry research regarding the sulfur chemistry of the Jovian system could be valuable in the discussion of possible life on Europa and the interpretation of upcoming missions to the Galilean moons, as well as contribute to the validity of density functional theory methods in the context of astrochemical sulfur reactions.
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Presented to the 23rd Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Forum (URCAF) held at the Rhatigan Student Center, Wichita State University, April 12, 2024.
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Wichita State University
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URCAF;v.23