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New Superionic State of Carbon Hydride Discovered in Uranus

4/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Scientists report a new quasi-one-dimensional superionic state of carbon hydride deep inside Uranus and Neptune.
Cong Liu and Ronald Cohen describe the state under extreme pressure and temperature in Nature Communications.
In this state, hydrogen atoms move along spiral paths within a rigid carbon lattice, altering heat and electricity transport.
The findings could explain the unusual magnetic fields of Uranus and Neptune and have implications for exoplanets.

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Story summary

Scientists report a new quasi-one-dimensional superionic state of carbon hydride deep inside Uranus and Neptune.
Cong Liu and Ronald Cohen describe the state under extreme pressure and temperature in Nature Communications.
In this state, hydrogen atoms move along spiral paths within a rigid carbon lattice, altering heat and electricity transport.
The findings could explain the unusual magnetic fields of Uranus and Neptune and have implications for exoplanets.