Purpose: This discussion will allow us to demonstrate knowledge of the chemical basis of life with an emphasis on the organic/biological macromolecules and inorganic molecules typically associated with most living organisms.
Initial Post (due Friday by 11:59 pm CST): Since the dawn of time, mankind has been interested in the cosmos. Shooting stars, comets, meteors and meteorites, stars, planets, and other celestial phenomena have all caught our eyes at some point. Over the centuries, we have learned much about our galaxy and beyond and we continue to do so with our endlessly improving technology. …but one question remains. Is there life beyond Earth?
Reports of UAPs (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) have come from individuals from every walk of life (with some being very credible sources), so the possibility of God creating life beyond Earth is there, but what is the probability and how can we support a hypothesis suggesting it does exist. Realistically, for science to confirm life may exist elsewhere, scientists will need either an alien lifeform to study, or, more likely, evidence that building blocks of life exist off of Earth. Assuming alien life is constructed of the same organic and inorganic chemicals as life on Earth.
In your initial post (minimum 300 words), address the following prompts:
Briefly discuss what we would need to find, at the chemical level, that might indicate life may exist beyond Earth. What elements make up 99% of the human body and what four biological macromolecules do they form? Why are each of those macromolecules important to living organisms? What are their functions? What about inorganic chemicals? What inorganic molecules do organisms on Earth need to survive?
How do all these building blocks come together to constitute life?
Have scientists found any of what you just discussed in space or are all these building blocks and inorganic chemicals still only found on Earth?
Do you think life exists beyond Earth? Why or why not?
Would life on other planets confuse, disrupt, or enhance your faith in God as the creator of life? Why?
Make sure that your post is grammatically correct, uses full sentences, and professionally written (see the Discussion Question Standards). Use 1-2 references to cite/justify your response. For more information on how to reference your sources, see the Citing your sources.
