Description
Life in the Universe takes non-science majors on a journey through the solar system and beyond, using a rigorous yet accessible introduction to astronomy, biology, chemistry, and geology to explain natural phenomena and to explore profound scientific questions about astrobiology. The Third Edition has been thoroughly revised to include updated scientific discoveries, new Cosmic Context two-page spreads, and an updated Companion Website.
Designed for astrobiology courses but also suitable for introductory astronomy, Life in the Universe captures the imagination of students by exploring fundamental pan-scientific questions: How did life begin on Earth? What are the most extreme forms of life currently known? Is it reasonable to imagine life beyond Earth?
The text motivates non-science majors to develop basic reasoning skills and an understanding of the process of science through skillful writing and a wealth of pedagogical features, such as Learning Goals that keep students focused on key concepts. Sidebars provide optional mathematical material for courses that fulfill quantitative requirements.
Table of Contents
I. INTRODUCING LIFE IN THE UNIVERSE
1. A Universe of Life?
2. The Science of Life in the Universe
3. The Universal Context of Life
II. LIFE ON EARTH
4 The Habitability of Earth
5. The Nature of Life on Earth
6. The Origin and Evolution of Life on Earth
III. LIFE IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM
7. Searching for Life in Our Solar System
8. Mars
9. Life on Jovian Moons
10. The Nature and Evolution of Habitability
IV. LIFE AMONG THE STARS
11. Habitability Outside the Solar System
12. The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence
13. Interstellar Travel and the Fermi Paradox
Epilogue: Contact – Implications of the Search and Discovery
Purchase Info 
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Life in the Universe, CourseSmart eTextbook, 3rd Edition
Format: Electronic Book
$56.99 | ISBN-13: 978-0-321-74088-5
