Radiation-irradiated water could be a potential habitat for alien organisms. A similar statement was made by scientists from the University of San Antonio (Texas, USA). They simulated the decomposition process in the process of radiolysis of hydrogen oxide. Scientists have established the possibility of the formation of compounds in this process that can be used by bacteria.
According to experts, in the process of water radiolysis, molecular hydrogen is released, which can be a source of energy for living cells. The emergence of radiation occurs during the decay of isotopes of potassium, uranium and thorium, which are located in the bowels of cosmic bodies. According to the researchers' assumptions, in the rocks of Saturn's moon Enceladus, Jupiter's moon Europa, as well as Charon and Pluto, the chemical composition resembles chondrites - the type of meteorite that is most common. In this case, large celestial objects are capable of emitting radiation sufficient for the radiolysis process.
Given the strong case for oceans of liquid water on Europa and Enceladus, some scientists speculate that molecular hydrogen and reactive oxygen compounds are released this way.
On our planet, some types of bacteria live in a hydrogen-rich environment. This kind of conditions are unsuitable for the existence of a large number of microorganisms, but at the same time, they are characteristic of hydrothermal vents on the seabed and mine waters.
The formation of hydrogen can also occur in the course of chemical reactions that take place in the ocean. But in porous rocks that are on the seabed, radiolysis is the main source of hydrogen. Experts believe that radiolysis may also serve as the basis for the existence of microorganisms on other planets within the solar system.