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Phosphine at Deeper Level in Venus

Context:

Recently, scientists have detected phosphine at deeper level in Venus’ atmosphere than before using the James Clark Maxwell Telescope (JCMT) at Mauna Kea Observatory, Hawaii.

Relevance:

GS III: Science and Technology

Dimensions of the article:

  1. Phosphine
  2. Properties of Phosphine
  3. Uses of Phosphine
  4. Key Facts about Venus

Phosphine:

  • Phosphine is naturally produced on Earth by bacteria in low-oxygen environments.
  • Earth bacteria acquire phosphate from minerals or biological material and combine it with hydrogen to produce phosphine.
  • Also known as hydrogen phosphide.

Properties of Phosphine:

Colorless, Flammable, and Toxic:

  • Phosphine is a colorless gas with a strong garlic-like odor.
  • It is highly flammable and extremely toxic.

Formation:

  • Phosphine is formed through the action of a strong base or hot water on white phosphorus.
  • It can also be generated by the reaction of water with calcium phosphide (Ca3P2).

Structural Similarity:

  • Phosphine has a structural resemblance to ammonia (NH3).
  • However, it is a less effective solvent and less soluble in water compared to ammonia.

Uses of Phosphine:

Semiconductor and Plastics Industries: Phosphine finds application in the semiconductor and plastics industries.

Flame Retardant: It is used in the production of flame retardants.

Pesticide: Phosphine serves as a pesticide for stored grain.

Key Facts about Venus:

  • Proximity to Earth: Venus is Earth’s closest planetary neighbor.
  • Structure and Position: It has a structure similar to Earth but is slightly smaller and the second planet from the sun.
  • Atmosphere: Venus is enveloped by a dense and toxic atmosphere that traps heat.
  • Extreme Surface Temperatures: Surface temperatures on Venus can reach an intense 880 degrees Fahrenheit (471 degrees Celsius).
  • Slow Rotation: Venus rotates very slowly on its axis, with one day on Venus lasting 243 Earth days.
  • Unique Spin: Unlike other planets in our solar system, Venus spins clockwise on its axis.

-Source: Live Mint


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