There is no doubt that it is one of the most striking planets in the solar system. Venus. Venus still harbors many mysteries due to its reverse rotation direction, toxic atmosphere and high temperature. Yet our knowledge about the planet increases every day.

Atomic oxygen found on Venus

based in Germany Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt (DLR) In surveys conducted by , atomic oxygen was detected in the part of Venus’ atmosphere that faced the Sun. Atomic oxygen, a reactive oxygen species, was first detected in the illuminated part of Venus’ atmosphere. Atomic oxygen is a self-contained oxygen atom, ready for reaction. In the form we breathe, oxygen is a compound consisting of two atoms.

Scientists studying data from the Venus Express spacecraft found that atomic oxygen is present in the planet’s atmosphere at an altitude of 90 to 120 kilometers above the ground. The density of oxygen per cubic centimeter is 100 to 1000 particles It varies between. This amount is much lower than the oxygen concentration in our planet’s atmosphere.

Atomic oxygen, according to researchers in many different ways may have arisen. These possibilities include the breakdown of carbon dioxide and water on the planet by sunlight. Another possibility is that rocks and minerals react on the Earth’s surface. Sometimes, as a result of reactions, oxygen can remain outside as a residue.

According to scientists, the presence of atomic oxygen could play an important role in Venus’ atmosphere. For example, this oxygen reacts with other elements and compounds in the atmosphere and the climate and chemistry of the planet can influence. The research, published in Nature Communications, will also help make it easier to understand Venus and its differences from Earth in the future.