Earth Sciences

Methane formation driven by light and heat prior to the origin of life and beyond

L. Ernst, U. Barayeu, et al.

This groundbreaking research showcases how abiotic processes might have generated methane and ethane on the early Earth, driven by methylated sulfur and nitrogen compounds. Conducted by Leonard Ernst, Uladzimir Barayeu, Jonas Hädeler, Tobias P. Dick, Judith M. Klatt, Frank Keppler, and Johannes G. Rebelein, the study reveals a fascinating ROS-driven Fenton chemistry that could have played a significant role in shaping our planet's early atmosphere.

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Abstract

This paper demonstrates abiotic methane and ethane formation under early-Earth conditions from methylated sulfur and nitrogen compounds. These compounds are demethylated in Fenton reactions driven by ferrous iron and reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by light and heat in aqueous environments. This ROS-driven Fenton chemistry could have occurred across Earth's humid realm and significantly contributed to atmospheric methane levels before and after the origin of life.

Publisher

Nature Communications

Published On

Aug 01, 2023

Authors

Leonard Ernst, Uladzimir Barayeu, Jonas Hädeler, Tobias P. Dick, Judith M. Klatt, Frank Keppler, Johannes G. Rebelein

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