Researchers used quantum mechanical simulations to study how ultraviolet (UV) light changes the chemistry of ice. They want to explain puzzles from older experiments that showed different absorption after short and long UV exposure.
The team looked at ice with and without defects, and at cases with a missing water molecule (a vacancy) and with extra hydroxide ions or a Bjerrum defect. The simulations show these differences change how ice absorbs and emits light. UV can also break water to make charged particles and radicals. The researchers will compare their predictions with experiments and plan further studies that may help understand permafrost and icy moons.
Difficult words
- ultraviolet — a type of light beyond violet in spectrum
- simulation — computer model that shows how something behavessimulations
- defect — a fault in a material or structuredefects
- vacancy — a missing atom or molecule position
- hydroxide — a negatively charged chemical ion with oxygen and hydrogen
- radical — a very reactive atom or molecule with unpaired electronradicals
- permafrost — ground that stays frozen for many years
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why is it useful for scientists to compare simulations with experiments?
- How could studies of ice help us understand places like permafrost or icy moons?
Related articles
Father’s microplastic exposure affects offspring health
A mouse study found that when fathers were exposed to microplastics, their offspring developed metabolic problems. Female offspring showed diabetic signs and researchers linked the effect to changes in sperm small RNAs; the work was published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society.
Decolonising science: translating science into African languages
A radio programme explores how using African languages and local knowledge can make science easier to understand. Reporters and experts discuss translation challenges, practical steps and how communities can help shape scientific language.
