Simulating Hydrocarbon Formation (IMAGE) University of California - Davis Caption First-principles molecular dynamics simulation of liquid methane in contact with a hydrogen-terminated diamond surface at high temperature and pressure. The spontaneous formation of longer hydrocarbons is readily found during these simulations. Credit Eric Schwegler, Lawrence Livermore National Lab Usage Restrictions May be used with credit. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.