Abstract:
Biologically relevant amino acids exhibit homochirality with all molecules as the left-handed form.  Further, amino acids found in meteorites have been found with excesses of the left-handed form, indicating an extra-terrestrial physical process that can select left-handed chirality. Deviations in isotopic ratios, such as D/H and 15N/14N have also been associated with meteoric amino acids. We explore possible explanations of meteoric chiral selection and isotopic abundance ratios at the fundamental level in a magnetochiral model in which fundamental nuclear interactions may influence the selection of amino acid chirality in stellar environments.  Quantum chemical calculations have been performed to examine the effects of orbital electrons in chiral molecules on nuclear magnetization in high-field environments.  Interactions of high-energy leptons may proceed at a different rate with polarized molecules, thus creating a selective destruction mechanism.  Theoretical background is discussed and future experimental plans are presented.

Speaker: Dr. Michael Famiano, Western Michigan University

Date: Friday, 21 February, 15:30-16:30 at Mishima Hall

Host: Hiroyuki Kurokawa