Astrochemistry prefers the biomolecule: isomer-selective production of ethanolamine (HOCH 2 CH 2 NH 2 ) in interstellar model ices
Abstract
NO isomers are selective for ethanolamine while its isomers are not detected. Computations provide support that polar solvation destabilizes nitrogen- and oxygen-centered radicals while lowering the barrier to intramolecular hydrogen transfer, resulting in the selective stabilization and formation of carbon-centered radicals. These findings explain the unexpected abundance of ethanolamine in the interstellar medium, and the apparent isomer-selectivity of this reaction may represent a mechanism by which ice-phase astrochemical reactions are preferential toward the building blocks of life.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Astrophysics and Star Formation Studies
Origins and Evolution of Life
Space Science and Extraterrestrial Life
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics
- Volume
- 28
- Issue
- 8
- Pages
- 5516–5526
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Language
- EN