1-3 Chemistry of Life

Overview

Scientists at NASA, ESA and various universities who are tasked with designing the probes that search for life on Mars and Europa (a moon of Jupiter) must first define the very thing they are looking for–life. That’s not easy. Here, we take a detailed look at their definition and description of life on Earth, which immediately takes us deep into the realm of chemistry.

Activities

1. Read BioSkill 12 of the textbook.
2. Read BioSkill 14 of the textbook.
3. Read Section 2.1 of the textbook.
4. Download Lecture 1.3 slides.
5. Do one of the following:
   1. In-person section: Attend Lecture 1.3.
   2. Online section: Watch the following videos:
      1. Video 1.3.1, Atoms of Life.
      2. Video 1.3.2, Chemical Bonds in Metabolism
      3. Video 1.3.3, Life and Water.
6. Complete the questions on Study Guide 1.3.

Assessment

After completing the activities, log into Canvas, launch BIO 181 and complete Lec 1.3 Quiz.