Norma Murray, Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics
This online lecture provides information about life in extreme environments from the perspective of an undergraduate geology class. It explores current conditions for life, the origins of life, and contemporary harsh environments- particularly the ocean floor. A few extremophiles are introduced: thermophiles, psychrophiles, acidophiles, alkaliphiles, and halophiles. The possibility of life on other planets is examined by highlighting Mars, Europa, Enceladus, Titan, Io, Jovian planets, comets, and meteorites. Images and links to related websites and publications are included.
Subject: Biology:Ecology:Symbiotic Relations:Mutualism, Biology:Evolution:Principles, Biology:Biogeochemistry, Astrobiology, Microbiology Resource Type: Course Information:Course Site:Course Notes Grade Level: High School (9-12), College Lower (13-14) Extreme Environments: Alkaline, Acidic, Extremely Cold, Extremely Hot, Hypersaline Theme: Teach the Earth:Course Topics:Biogeoscience
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