CONDITIONS FOR LIFE IN

SPACE

Part I

Strong gravitational pull holds all planets in our solar system in orbit

Is an average star; about 4.6 billion years old

Provides the Earth with energy every day

Helps keep the temperature at a level that allows life to exist

Sun’s energy also creates wind in the Earth’s atmosphere

The Sun

Part II

Made up of various gases (primarily nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide)

Acts as a protective shield for the Earth that allows life to exist

The atmosphere is held around the Earth by the force of gravity

Influences the overall climate of the Earth

The Atmosphere

Part III

Overall, Earth’s climate is stable due to distance from the Sun and the Earth’s tilt

Water = very chemical necessary for life to exist on Earth

Water is found in all three stages on Earth: solid, liquid, and gas

Water vapor helps regulate Earth’s temperature. When it evaporates it cools the surface, keeping it from getting too hot

Climate and Water

Part IV

All planets receive light from the Sun What is necessary for life to exist on

Earth (what makes Earth habitable):1. Proximity of the Sun to Earth

determines amount of heat and light the Earth receives

2. Availability of liquid water and water vapor are necessary for formation of weather and climate

3. Nonpoisonous gases that make up the atmosphere enable organisms to survive

Summary