Pick one of the following Solar System objects: Venus, Europa, Titan, Io a. (5)
ID: 233501 • Letter: P
Question
Pick one of the following Solar System objects: Venus, Europa, Titan, Io a.
(5) List the various problems for human habitability there and explain why they are problems. Be specific (i.e., don't just say “Mars is too cold.” Say instead that “Mars' average temperature is around XXX Kelvin, so water only exists as ice or permafrost making growing plants difficult without irrigation.” Also notice that Mars is not one of your options. Start by thinking about what habitability means in terms of energy availability (and temperature), elemental abundance (especially key volatiles and “metals” enrichment), and protection from radiation. Don't forget the role geology plays in long-term atmosphere recycling and maintenance here on Earth!
b.
(5) Suggest ways you can solve those problems from a. and thus at least begin terraforming...:
Explanation / Answer
Titan is the biggest satellite of Saturn and the second biggest in the solar system after Ganymede. It has a dense nitrogen-rich atmosphere. Its diameter is 50% longer than our moon and it is larger than Mercury in size. It contains water but is trapped in ice.
a. Various problems for human habitability
b. Suggest ways you can solve those problems from a. and thus at least begin terraforming