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Molecular abundances in IRC + 10216

Abstract

The observed molecular column-densities in IRC + 10216 can be matched by chemical equilibrium calculations for T1,250K, P100dyn cm−2, and no graphite grain formation. Condensation of silicon carbide into grains may explain the low observed abundances of SiO and SiS. A compressed gaseous shell may be formed between successive dust shells lost by the central variable carbon star during each of its cycles.

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McCabe, E., Smith, R. & Clegg, R. Molecular abundances in IRC + 10216. Nature 281, 263–266 (1979). https://doi.org/10.1038/281263a0

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