This thesis is centered around the embedded phase of star formation and the chemical links between the various stages of evolution. The primary goal of this work is to pinpoint the origins... Show more This thesis is centered around the embedded phase of star formation and the chemical links between the various stages of evolution. The primary goal of this work is to pinpoint the origins of cometary complex organic molecules in the preceding protoplanetary disk and prestellar stages, both in the gas and solid phases. The grand motivation is to identify our interstellar roots. This work is unique in comparison to earlier publications due to the dynamic nature of the models used in combination with the large comprehensive chemical network. Three chapters in this book pertain to physicochemical models and an additional one is of observational nature. Altogether, this thesis is an attempt to piece together the chemical connection between the prestellar core, the protoplanetary disk and the protoplanetary and cometary materials. The main take-home message is that the seeding of infant Solar System building blocks with complex organic molecules is unavoidable as a result of chemistry during protoplanetary disk assembly. Show less
In recent years it has become clear that the space in between the stars, contains a remarkable amount of highly diverse molecules, ranging from simple diatomics to large complex species.... Show moreIn recent years it has become clear that the space in between the stars, contains a remarkable amount of highly diverse molecules, ranging from simple diatomics to large complex species. Astronomical observations and dedicated laboratory experiments show that icy dust grains play a prominent role in the chemical enrichment of matter in space. Exotic solid state reactions taking place for temperatures as low as -260 degree merge small abundant species to larger and larger compounds until species are formed that are considered to be of relevance for life; sugars, fats and precursors of amino acids. Ultimately this material is embedded in matter from which stars and planets form. So, could it be possible, that the ingredients for life form everywhere, in space, following very similar chemical pathways? In this thesis a dedicated laboratory study is described that studies exactly these processes. With a new experimental setup the physical and chemical processes are characterized that are needed to interpret and guide astronomical observations and that yield parameters needed as input in astrochemical models. It is concluded that the chemical complexity in the solid state reaches out much further than assumed so far. Show less
