Could Titan’s hydrocarbon seas support life?

By Nina Notman2024-09-13T07:44:00

The whole surface of a moon showing red and white patches

Source: © NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Nantes/University of Arizona/Science Source/Science Photo Library

Probing the seas of Saturn’s largest moon

The Cassini–Huygens space research mission has provided information on the composition of the seas on Saturn’s largest moon, Titan. By analysing radar data, researchers have discovered what liquid hydrocarbons make up the seas, evidence of surface waves and potential tidal currents. These findings offer new perspectives on the possibility of life on Titan. Use the summary slide with questions and the article for context when teaching 14–16 lessons on alkanes, such as methane and ethane.

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