Life in the Universe

Expectations and Constraints

Dirk Schulze-Makuch, Louis N. Irwin - Collection Advances in Astrobiology and Biogeophysics

172 pages, parution le 30/06/2004

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Résumé

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. While speculative considerations in this emerging field of science cannot be avoided, the authors have tried to present their study with the breadth and seriousness that a scientific approach to this issue requires. They seek an operational definition of life and investigate the realm of possibilities that nature offers to realize this very special state of matter and avoid scientific jargon wherever possible to make this intrinsically interdisciplinary subject understandable to a broad range of readers.

Written for:
Scientists, students

Sommaire

Introduction
Definition of Life
Lessons from the History of Life
Energy Sources and Life
Building Blocks of Life
Life and the Need for a Solvent
Habitats of Life
Ideas of Exotic Forms of Life
Signatures of Life and the Question of Detection

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	PAPIER
Éditeur(s)	Springer
Auteur(s)	Dirk Schulze-Makuch, Louis N. Irwin
Collection	Advances in Astrobiology and Biogeophysics
Parution	30/06/2004
Nb. de pages	172
Format	16 x 24
Couverture	Relié
Poids	475g
Intérieur	Noir et Blanc
EAN13	9783540206279