Manganese's emission lines shine a light on galactic evolution

Astronomers have uncovered wavelengths of light that could shed light on the chemical evolution of the universe. By simulating how electrons interact with manganese ions—elements produced during supernovae—researchers pinpointed emission lines that are extremely sensitive to temperature and density changes in nebulae. These lines could serve as valuable tools for studying rapidly expanding objects like supernova remnants and large gas clouds.

Professor Anil Pradhan of The Ohio State University, co-author of the study published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, explained that understanding galactic composition can provide insights into star chemistry and the universe's evolution. Manganese is particularly significant due to its increasing abundance over time, making it a potential cosmic clock for tracing galaxy evolution.

Combining emission line data with knowledge of other elements such as oxygen and sulfur could enable scientists to view early epochs in the universe's history. The team utilized powerful computing systems to model over 700 potential emission lines, overcoming the challenge of detecting faint lines. While their findings are theoretical, they suggest that these conclusions could predict conditions in other complex space environments when validated with real-world astronomical observations.

The research, which bridges astrophysics, atomic physics, and plasma physics, aims to uncover new processes using the James Webb Space Telescope and other observatories. Results will be made publicly available to facilitate further chemical discoveries in the cosmos.