Colloquium Abstract - Schwarz - 2026Feb13

February 13, 2026

11:00am Mountain

Kamber Schwarz (MPIA)

 

Ion-driven Chemistry During Planet Formation

 

Abstract

Planets are formed in protoplanetary disks of gas and dust around young stars. Where and when a planet forms determines its ultimate composition. However, our ability to determine exoplanet compositions from observations is extremely limited. To truly understand what planets are made of we must instead observe the planet-forming material in the natal disk. These protoplanetary disks are dynamic objects. Material moves through the disk, experiencing a wide range of temperature, irradiation, and ionization conditions. Simultaneously, chemical reactions change the composition of the disk material. I will explore how observations at radio through far-ir wavelengths have given us new insights into the changing composition and local environment of protoplanetary disks. I will also show how combining observations and chemical models enables a holistic understanding of the environment during planet formation.


Local Host: Ylva Pihlstrom

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