A Curious Mission: An Analysis of Martian Molecules
Author(s)
Department of Forestry and Natural Resources
Purdue University
eflaher@purdue.edu
Department of Zoology and Physiology
University of Wyoming
Jonathan.Prather@uwyo.edu
Abstract
In this case study, students play the role of a NASA scientist tasked with analyzing samples of atmosphere and soil collected on Mars as part of the Mars Curiosity Mission. The case study takes place in the future when samples of the Martian atmosphere and surface have been returned to Earth as part of the fictional Curiosity Mission 5. Students identify which elements and molecules are present in those samples and draw the structural formula of each. Next, they use that information to determine which macromolecules could be created, and compare that list to molecules believed to exist on early Earth. Finally, students make a prediction about whether life (as we know it or otherwise) could exist on Mars, and discuss possible experimental designs to test their ideas. This case was developed for an introductory level general biology course. It could also be appropriate as an early review activity in a biochemistry course.
Objectives
- Calculate the molecular weight of an atom.
- Construct molecular diagrams using structural formulas.
- Determine the type of bond formed between two atoms based on their valence and relative electronegativities.
- Recall the atomic content of the major macromolecule types.
- Design an experiment.
- Analyze and extract data from a scientific figure.
Keywords
Atoms; molecules; macromolecules, electronegativity; bonds; life; experimental design; data analysis; MarsTopical Areas
Scientific methodEducational Level
High school, Undergraduate lower divisionFormat
PDFType / Methods
Analysis (Issues), Directed, DiscussionLanguage
EnglishSubject Headings
Biology (General) | Biochemistry | Chemistry (General) |
Date Posted
2/10/2014Teaching Notes
Case teaching notes are password-protected and access to them is limited to paid subscribed instructors. To become a paid subscriber, begin the process by registering.
Teaching notes are intended to help teachers select and adopt a case. They typically include a summary of the case, teaching objectives, information about the intended audience, details about how the case may be taught, and a list of references and resources.
Answer Key
Answer keys for the cases in our collection are password-protected and access to them is limited to paid subscribed instructors. To become a paid subscriber, begin the process by registering.