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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Preprint |
| Published: |
2026
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://arxiv.org/abs/2606.00569 |
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Table of Contents:
- The search for dithioformic acid (t-HC(S)SH) in star-forming regions is crucial for understanding interstellar sulfur chemistry and addressing the 'missing sulfur' problem. Motivated by a recent claim of t-HC(S)SH detection in NGC 1333 IRAS 4A2, we independently reanalyzed the same ALMA dataset using comprehensive spectral and chemical modeling. We find no credible evidence for t-HC(S)SH: all reported transitions are fully accounted for by known, abundant molecules, with no unblended features unique to t-HC(S)SH. We critically reassess the reported detection, deriving stringent upper limits on the column density (N_t-HC(S)SH <= 4 x 10^14 cm^-2) and the fractional abundance (<= 1 x 10^-10 relative to H2). Our astrochemical models place these limits in context, showing the claimed detection likely results from spectral blending and inconsistent modeling assumptions. The non-detection aligns with chemical expectations given the rarity of complex and doubly sulfur-substituted molecules in hot corino environments. Furthermore, our analysis establishes a rigorous framework to guide future searches for sulfur-bearing species and highlights the critical importance of thorough line identification and modeling practices in astrochemistry.