How much P is in Enceladus's ocean, and what does it mean for life?
Enceladus, one of the most alluring moons in the solar system, is of great interest because it has a subsurface water ocean that might be able to support life. Dr. Christopher Glein has previously looked at the geochemistry and habitability of Enceladus's ocean in terms of the availability of chemical energy and organic building blocks. But, a lingering question all along has been whether phosphorus (P), a common limiting element, is present in the right form and with a sufficient abundance to support life as we know it. In this talk, Dr. Glein will present recent modeling and observational results that show great promise in helping us to resolve the mystery of phosphorus on Enceladus, and perhaps on other icy ocean worlds as well.
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Earth and Planets Laboratory
Greenewalt Lecture Hall | Washington, DC 20015
United States