Formation of hydrogen peroxide and water from the reaction of cold hydrogen atoms with solid oxygen at 10K

TL;DR

This study demonstrates the efficient formation of water and hydrogen peroxide from cold hydrogen atoms reacting with solid oxygen at 10K, providing insights into astrochemical processes in cold interstellar environments.

Contribution

First experimental evidence of water molecule formation from H and O2 reactions at interstellar-like conditions, with detailed reaction rates and mechanisms.

Findings

Confirmed formation of H2O2 and H2O at 10K

Measured effective reaction rates

Discussed astrophysical implications

Abstract

The reactions of cold H atoms with solid O2 molecules were investigated at 10 K. The formation of H2O2 and H2O has been confirmed by in-situ infrared spectroscopy. We found that the reaction proceeds very efficiently and obtained the effective reaction rates. This is the first clear experimental evidence of the formation of water molecules under conditions mimicking those found in cold interstellar molecular clouds. Based on the experimental results, we discuss the reaction mechanism and astrophysical implications.