Uncovering a New Form of Matter in Uranus and Neptune

Recent simulations conducted by Carnegie scientists Cong Liu and Ronald Cohen suggest that deep within the ice giant planets Uranus and Neptune, a previously unknown form of matter may exist. Their study, published in *Nature Communications*, indicates that carbon hydride (CH) could adopt a quasi-one-dimensional superionic state under the extreme pressures and temperatures found in these planets' interiors. This state is characterized by a unique atomic structure where carbon atoms form a stable framework, while hydrogen atoms move along spiral-like paths.

Scientists May Have Found a Strange New State of Matter Twisting Deep Inside Uranus and NeptuneScience Daily

To explore the behavior of carbon hydride under these conditions, Liu and Cohen utilized high-performance computing and machine-learning tools to simulate environments ranging from nearly 5 million to 30 million times Earth's atmospheric pressure (500 to 3,000 gigapascals) and temperatures between 6,740 and 10,340 degrees Fahrenheit (4,000 to 6,000 Kelvin). The results revealed that under such extreme conditions, carbon and hydrogen can form highly organized structures that do not exist on Earth.

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The directional movement of hydrogen atoms within this superionic state could significantly influence how heat and electricity are transported through the deep layers of Uranus and Neptune. This behavior is crucial for understanding the generation of the planets' unusual magnetic fields, which differ from those of other celestial bodies. As Liu noted, “Carbon and hydrogen are among the most abundant elements in planetary materials, yet their combined behavior at giant-planet conditions remains far from fully understood.”

Science DailyScientists May Have Found a Strange New State of Matter Twisting Deep Inside Uranus and Neptune

The findings extend beyond planetary science, suggesting that even simple elements like carbon and hydrogen can exhibit complex behaviors under extreme conditions. This research may inform advancements in materials science and engineering by revealing new types of directional behavior in matter, potentially leading to innovative applications.

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While the study presents groundbreaking insights, some critics argue that the simulations may not fully capture the complexities of real planetary interiors. The reliance on computational models raises questions about the accuracy of the predictions regarding the behavior of carbon hydride under such extreme conditions.

Scientists May Have Found a Strange New State of Matter Twisting Deep Inside Uranus and Neptune

• “As Ronald Cohen explained: “This newly predicted carbon-hydrogen phase is particularly striking because the atomic motion is not fully three-dimensional.” — Ronald Cohen, Scientist

Scientists May Have Found a Strange New State of Matter Twisting Deep Inside Uranus and Neptune

• “ Findings like this show that even the simplest elements can behave in unexpected ways when matter is pushed to its limits.” — Cong Liu, Scientist

Scientists May Have Found a Strange New State of Matter Twisting Deep Inside Uranus and Neptune

The implications of this research could lead to further investigations into the internal structures of Uranus and Neptune, as well as the exploration of other exoplanets. Understanding these processes may enhance our knowledge of planetary formation and evolution, as well as the potential for life beyond Earth.

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