Experimental and theoretical simulations of ice sublimation with implications for the chemical, isotopic, and physical evolution of icy objects

► Study reveals several unknown and fundamental characteristics of the mechanisms of ice sublimation. ► Quasi-periodic, sublimation cascades occur on time scales of hours to days. ► Quasi-periodic changes in the D/H ratio of the vapor accompany sublimation cascades. ► Vacuum sublimation is a diffusive process that leaves behind the most strongly bound molecules.