NATS 1880 Study Guide - Midterm Guide: Anaximander, Nicolaus Copernicus, Electromagnetic Radiation
24 Oct 2013
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Document Summary
Macroscopic (multicellular) life does not exist outside of earth. Microbial (bacterial) may exist outside our solar system. Many stars have solar systems potential sites for life. Laws of physics work well on earth and proven to work elsewhere (universal) Organic molecules (carbon, building blocks of life) found elsewhere: very common, survive harshest conditions, do not equate to life. Astronomy + biology, also called exobiology or bio-astronomy : studies conditions conducive to origin & existence of life. Biology appreciates the tenacity and variety of life on earth: conceivable that biological interactions can happen on other plants. Astronomy suggests that earth is not special and changes our view of earth. Planetary science helps us understand how planets behave and gives context to where to find life. Liquid water is essential for life to occur. Heat or energy, time, radiation protection all needed for development and existence of life. Search for similarities in our own solar system, commonality of biology.
