When it comes to space exploration, nothing makes the news quite like the possibility of finding extra-terrestrial water. Just over a month ago, a research team from Japan used the Subaru Telescope to observe the water-rich atmosphere of Gliese 1214 b, a planet 40 light years from Earth.
Why are we always searching for water in space? What does discovering water have to do with the possibility of discovering extra-terrestrial life?
To begin answering these questions, we explored some of water's interesting properties through the following investigations:
Water's molecular structure: We made models of water molecules, noting how oxygen and the 2 hydrogens share electrons.
Water sticks to other water molecules and other stuff too: We observed the U-shaped water line in a graduated cylinder and the dome shaped water line, as you fill a cup just beyond the brim.
Water is strangely denser than its solid form, ice.
Water's a great solvent: We saw how water dissolves marker ink and carries along its components through filter paper.
Finally we discussed why these properties are so important for life as we know it.
To begin answering these questions, we explored some of water's interesting properties through the following investigations:
Water's molecular structure: We made models of water molecules, noting how oxygen and the 2 hydrogens share electrons.
Water sticks to other water molecules and other stuff too: We observed the U-shaped water line in a graduated cylinder and the dome shaped water line, as you fill a cup just beyond the brim.
Water is strangely denser than its solid form, ice.
Water's a great solvent: We saw how water dissolves marker ink and carries along its components through filter paper.
Finally we discussed why these properties are so important for life as we know it.
No comments:
Post a Comment