Molecular Processes on Surfaces of Interstellar Grains

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Dr. Victoria Buch at the University of Illinois, Chicago, is doing theoretical research on molecular processes taking place on the surfaces of interstellar grains. The processes include sticking of gas particles on grains, accumulation and desorption of dirty ice mantles on grain surfaces, and mobility of particles on and within the mantles. Interstellar chemistry has emerged as a new and exciting field during the past 20 years, and observations of the spectra of molecules are a major diagnostic tool for probing the interiors of interstellar clouds. A detailed understanding of the formation and destruction processes of molecules under physical conditions applicable to interstellar clouds is of great importance for the interpretation of the observational data. Dr. Buch's theoretical studies of molecular processes on grains will enable a more accurate and thorough interpretation of observations.