Described as a "prebiotic concentrate" by Fortenberry, methanetetrol contains four hydroxyl groups attached to a single carbon atom - making it a rare type of ortho acid. These compounds are notoriously difficult to isolate but are believed to be vital in the complex chemistry that underpins life.
To simulate space-like conditions, the researchers froze carbon dioxide and water ices near absolute zero and subjected them to cosmic ray-like radiation. This method triggered the release of methanetetrol into a gaseous state, where it was detected using ultraviolet light.
"This is essentially a prebiotic concentrate - a seed of life molecule," Fortenberry said. "It's something that can lead to more complex chemistry if given the opportunity. Think of it like an acorn that will grow into a tree in the Grove."
Kaiser added, "The detection of the only alcohol with four hydroxyl groups at the same carbon atom pushes the experimental and detection capabilities to the 'final frontier,' the next level beyond what could be accomplished before due to the lack of experimental and computational approaches."
Methanetetrol's instability arises from the close proximity of its oxygen atoms, which resist bonding with each other. The molecule is prone to decomposition, potentially producing substances like water and hydrogen peroxide - key elements in biochemistry.
"You have this compact, carbon-oxygen molecule that just really wants to go 'boom,'" Fortenberry said. "And when it does, when you give it any kind of energy, you'll have water, hydrogen peroxide and a number of other potential compounds that are important for life.
"It's a like a prebiotic bomb."
Because the compound formed under laboratory conditions that mimic interstellar environments, the researchers believe methanetetrol could also exist naturally in space - highlighting potential hotspots for life-supporting chemistry.
"While carbon is the building block of life, oxygen is what makes up nearly everything else," Fortenberry said. "Oxygen is everywhere and is essential for life as we know it.
"So, if we can find places where methanetetrol forms naturally, we know that it is a place that has the potential building blocks to support life."
Research Report:Methanetetrol and the final frontier in ortho acids
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