Chemical Composition of Dust Expected from Condensation Models

Abstract

ABSTRACT. This review examines to what degrees the present chemical equilibrium condensation models are effective in predicting chemical composition of grains observed in a variety of cosmic environments. The composition expected from the equilibrium calculations is reviewed separately for refractory (rocky and metallic) and volatile (icy) components. Comments are given on the limitation of the equilibrium calculations in predicting the grain composition. By taking cometary ice as a typical cosmic volatile condensate, it is pointed out that its composition is far from that expected from the equilibrium models. Theories on the formation of cometary volatiles are reviewed, and an observational clue helpful to testing the theories is pointed out. Discussion is given on the advantage for formation of organic materials from volatile solids.