The Chemist Decoding Our Cosmic Origins | Great Minds: Ewine van Dishoeck

The video explores the work of Evina von Dieshuk in understanding the chemistry of space. It highlights the presence of atoms in seemingly empty space and the challenges of studying interstellar clouds. The video delves into the survival of carbon monoxide in space, despite UV light, and its importance in forming life. It also discusses the role of water in star and planet formation. Von Dieshuk's significant contributions to astrochemistry, including her research on carbon monoxide and water, are emphasized, along with her recognition in the scientific community.

What is the significance of the atoms present in interstellar space?

• They prevent the formation of any celestial bodies.

• They are only found in the air we breathe.

• They are responsible for the formation of galaxies, stars, and planets.

• They make space completely empty.

What challenge do scientists face when studying interstellar clouds?

• They emit too much light.

• They are too hot to study.

• They are very cold and emit little light.

• They are too dense to see through.

What was the main problem with carbon monoxide in space?

• It is too heavy to move in space.

• It does not interact with other molecules.

• It is easily destroyed by UV light.

• It is too abundant and causes pollution.

How does carbon monoxide manage to survive in space despite UV light?

• It moves away from UV light.

• It is not affected by any light.

• It is constantly replenished by stars.

• It is protected by other molecules and dust.

What role does water play in star formation?

• It prevents dust from sticking together.

• It only exists in liquid form in space.

• It makes dust grains stickier and heavier.

• It evaporates and leaves no trace.

How did space telescopes in the 1990s help in the study of interstellar water?

• They made it possible to detect water from the ground.

• They showed that water does not exist in space.

• They enabled the detection of interstellar water.

• They allowed scientists to see water in our atmosphere.

What was one of Evina von Dieshuk's significant contributions to astrochemistry?

• She solved the carbon monoxide conundrum.

• She discovered a new planet.

• She proved that space is completely empty.

• She invented a new type of telescope.