The distribution of hydrocarbons in Titan's atmosphere: An evolutionary algorithm-based model
Résumé
We propose a new approach to study the chemical complexity of Titan's atmosphere. We have developed an evolutionary algorithm-based model that simulates the evolution of interacting elements with different valences. This abstract model mimics a C H O N system that might get an insight into the general properties of the chemistry of Titan's atmosphere. Comparison with detailed models like photochemical models is discussed to evaluate limitations and benefits of each approach. Comparison with observations suggests that Titan's atmosphere might self-organize to produce hydrocarbons with distributions that follow a power-law relation. If confirmed, this property makes possible some prediction about the abundance of heavy hydrocarbons in the atmosphere of Titan.