When
7 p.m., Nov. 16, 2009
Where
Kuiper Space Sciences 308
presented by Professor Roger Yelle
Life on Earth is composed of organic molecules of amazing complexity, yet these very large biological molecules are constructed from much simpler building blocks. Where do these building blocks come from? Studies of other planets by spacecraft suggest how some building blocks might be formed through chemistry in their atmospheres. Detection of ring molecules and amines in the atmosphere of Titan is particularly difficult. This lecture will review the observations and theories for how biological building blocks are formed and speculate on the next steps in our investigations of the origin of life.
Life on Earth is composed of organic molecules of amazing complexity, yet these very large biological molecules are constructed from much simpler building blocks. Where do these building blocks come from? Studies of other planets by spacecraft suggest how some building blocks might be formed through chemistry in their atmospheres. Detection of ring molecules and amines in the atmosphere of Titan is particularly difficult. This lecture will review the observations and theories for how biological building blocks are formed and speculate on the next steps in our investigations of the origin of life.
General
LPL Evening Lectures
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