Extreme Pressure and Organic Molecules

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between pressure and temperature in gases, and the potential for extreme pressures to raise the temperature of organic molecules to their melting point. It is mentioned that animal tissue is mostly water and can turn into charcoal under pressure, which can then potentially become fossil fuels, graphite, or diamonds depending on the conditions. The question is posed about the effects of high temperatures and pressures on these molecules, and it is clarified that compression, not pressure itself, raises the temperature.
  • #1
Adamand
2
0
Hello all,

I understand that an increase in pressure yeilds an increase in temperature (in gases). However, I was wondering if extreme pressures can raise the temperature of organic molecules (such as the tissues in a human body) to melting point.

Thanks!
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
  • #2
Animal tissue is 70% water. If you squeeze it, that's what you'll get. Cells are little water-balloons that can burst. One-way sponges.

The dried stuff that would be left is practically charcoal, it's solid.

And then depending on what pressure exactly you have in mind, and which temperature cycles and specific environmental conditions, charcoal can eventually become any kind of "fossil fuel", graphite or diamond.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Dr Lots-o'watts said:
Animal tissue is 70% water. If you squeeze it, that's what you'll get. Cells are little water-balloon that can burst. One-way sponges.

The dried stuff that would be left is practically charcoal, it's solid.

I guess my real question is, what would happen to these "solid" molecules under extreme pressure?
 
  • #4
You'll get very impure diamonds.
 
  • #5
Compression raises the temperature, not the pressure itself. A pressurized gas canister has the same temperature as anything around it, obviously.

So what's the actual question: What the effect of high temperatures is, or what the effect of high pressures is? (or possibly both) And in what conditions?
 

1. What is extreme pressure?

Extreme pressure refers to the amount of force applied to an object, typically measured in pounds per square inch (psi). This can be exerted by natural causes such as tectonic plates shifting or by human-made machines like hydraulic presses.

2. How does extreme pressure affect organic molecules?

Extreme pressure can cause organic molecules to undergo structural changes, such as breaking bonds and rearranging atoms. This can lead to the formation of new molecules or the destruction of existing ones.

3. Can extreme pressure create new organic molecules?

Yes, extreme pressure can create new organic molecules through a process called abiogenesis. This occurs when simple organic molecules are subjected to high pressures and temperatures, causing them to combine and form more complex molecules.

4. Is extreme pressure necessary for life to exist?

No, extreme pressure is not necessary for life to exist. While some organisms, such as deep-sea bacteria, can withstand extreme pressures, there are many other environments where life can thrive without the presence of extreme pressure.

5. How can scientists study the effects of extreme pressure on organic molecules?

Scientists can study the effects of extreme pressure on organic molecules through laboratory experiments using high-pressure chambers or through natural observations, such as studying organisms that live in high-pressure environments. They can also use computer simulations to model the behavior of organic molecules under extreme pressure.

Similar threads

  • Chemistry
Replies
1
Views
795
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
14
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
1K
Replies
13
Views
5K
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Chemistry
Replies
24
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Back
Top