Conditions For Life On Earth
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What are the 5 features of Earth that created suitable conditions for life?
• Mass • Distance from the Sun • Axis of rotation • Speed of rotation • Magnetic field
How does Earths mass create suitable conditions for life?
The mass is great enough to prevent most gases from escaping into space - creating the atmosphere. This is because the mass of Earth controls the force of gravity. Subsequent atmospheric pressure is high enough to prevent all liquid water from boiling.
How does the Earths axis of rotation create conditions suitable for life?
It produces seasonal variations in conditions as the Earth orbits the Sun
What essentiel physiological functions does water exhibit which makes it so important for life? (7)
• ‘Universal Solvent’ • Transport within organisms • Temperature control • Anomalous expansion on freezing • High specific heat capacity • Provision of aquatic habitats • Absorption of UV radiation
Why is Earths temperature range so ideal for life?
Most areas are warm enough to have liquid water but not too hot that proteins are denatured
When did oxygen start being released into the atmosphere?
Once all the iron in the oceans had reacted with oxygen
How can calcite deposits indicate past atmospheric composition?
The ratio of magnesium to calcium in these deposits are measured. More magnesium is incorporated at higher temperatures