1. the branch of astronomy and chemistry that studies the chemical composition and chemical processes of celestial objects and the interstellar medium
Usage: scientific field; uncountable

Examples

• Astrochemistry helps scientists understand how molecules form in space.
• The discovery of organic compounds in meteorites was a major breakthrough in astrochemistry.
• Astrochemistry reveals that water ice exists in many regions of the galaxy.
• Researchers use spectroscopy in astrochemistry to identify elements in distant stars.
• Astrochemistry explains the chemical reactions that occur in nebulae.
• The study of astrochemistry has shown that the building blocks of life may be common throughout the universe.