Molecular hydrogen in CO2-dominated atmospheres of terrestrial exoplanets : impact on the photochemical formation of water
Abstract
As for the rocky planets of the Solar System, the atmosphere of terrestrial exoplanets is affected by volcanic outgassing. Significant emissions of molecular hydrogen are expected in the early stage of their evolution. In the upper atmosphere, molecular hydrogen becomes photochemically active along with CO2. Laboratory experiments conducted highlight a significant formation of water which strongly depends on the concentration of molecular hydrogen.
Origin : Publication funded by an institution