Buch, Englisch, 251 Seiten, Format (B × H): 156 mm x 235 mm, Gewicht: 620 g
Expectations and Constraints
Buch, Englisch, 251 Seiten, Format (B × H): 156 mm x 235 mm, Gewicht: 620 g
Reihe: Advances in Astrobiology and Biogeophysics
ISBN: 978-3-540-76816-6
Verlag: Springer
Energy, chemistry, solvents, and habitats - the basic elements of living systems - define the opportunities and limitations for life on other worlds. This study examines each of these parameters in crucial depth and makes the argument that life forms we would recognize may be more common in our solar system than many assume. It also considers, however, exotic forms of life that would not have to rely on carbon as the basic chemical element, solar energy as the main energy source, or water as the primary solvent. Finally the question of detecting bio- and geosignature of such life forms is discussed, ranging from earth environments to deep space. The book seeks an operational definition of life and investigate the realm of possibilities that nature offers to realize this very special state of matter. It avoids scientific jargon wherever possible to make this intrinsically interdisciplinary subject understandable to a broad range of readers.
Zielgruppe
Graduate
Autoren/Hrsg.
Fachgebiete
- Naturwissenschaften Astronomie Sonnensystem: Sonne und Planeten
- Geowissenschaften Geographie | Raumplanung Biogeographie
- Naturwissenschaften Biowissenschaften Biochemie (nichtmedizinisch)
- Naturwissenschaften Astronomie Exobiologie, Astrobiologie, Xenobiologie
- Naturwissenschaften Biowissenschaften Mikrobiologie
Weitere Infos & Material
Definition of Life.- Origin of Life.- Lessons from the History of Life on Earth.- Energy Sources and Life.- Building Blocks of Life.- Life and the Need for a Solvent.- Habitats of Life.- Ideas of Exotic Forms of Life.- The Future and Fate of Living Systems.- Signatures of Life.- Life Detection-Past and Present.- Optimizing Space Exploration.
