Robust interpretation and use of astrochemical models

Determine whether current chemical knowledge and explicit awareness of model limitations are sufficient to support robust interpretation and responsible use of astrochemical chemical models despite their numerous uncertain input parameters.

Background

Astrochemical simulations depend on uncertain elemental abundances, ionization rates, temperatures, reaction networks, desorption mechanisms, and other parameters. The inverse problem is non-unique: different parameter combinations can produce similar abundances, while similar models can produce different results.

The authors therefore question both the appropriate role of chemical models and whether existing understanding and documentation are adequate to prevent overinterpretation or misuse.