# Observations of CH$_3$OH and CH$_3$CHO in a Sample of Protostellar Outflow Sources

## TL;DR

This study observes methanol and acetaldehyde in protostellar outflows, revealing their grain-surface formation and destruction in shocks, with implications for astrochemical processes.

## Contribution

First detection and analysis of CH$_3$OH and CH$_3$CHO in multiple protostellar outflows using RADEX and LTE models.

## Key findings

- Methanol and acetaldehyde are formed on grain surfaces.
- Line profiles show destruction in faster outflows.
- Column density ratios suggest grain-surface formation for both species.

## Abstract

Iram 30-m Observations towards eight protostellar outflow sources were taken in the 96-\SI{176}{\giga\hertz} range. Transitions of CH$_3$OH and CH$_3$CHO were detected in seven of them. The integrated emission of the transitions of each species that fell into the observed frequency range were measured and fit using RADEX and LTE models. Column densities and gas properties inferred from this fitting are presented. The ratio of the A and E-type isomers of CH$_3$OH indicate that the methanol observed in these outflows was formed on the grain surface. Both species demonstrate a reduction of terminal velocity in their line profiles in faster outflows, indicating destruction in the post-shock gas phase. This destruction, and a near constant ratio of the CH$_3$OH and CH$_3$CHO column densities imply it is most likely that CH$_3$CHO also forms on the grain surface.