Propyne: Determination of physical properties and unit cell parameters under Titan-relevant conditions

With its large size, dense atmosphere, methane-based hydrological-like cycle, and diverse surface features, the Saturnian moon Titan is one of the most unique of the outer Solar System satellites. Study of the photochemically-produced molecules in Titan’s atmosphere is critical in order to understand the mechanics of the atmosphere and by extension, the interactions between atmosphere, surface, and subsurface water ocean. One example is propyne vapor, a photochemically-produced species in Titan’s upper atmosphere expected to condense in Titan’s stratosphere at lower altitudes. Propyne may also be a trace species in Titan’s stratospheric co-condensed ice clouds detected by Cassini CIRS (Composite InfraRed Spectrometer). Bulk structural characterization of propyne ice is currently incomplete, and is lacking in published laboratory Raman spectra and X-ray diffraction data. Here we present a laboratory characterization of propyne ice, including the first published X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy results for propyne ice.