Learn about the molecules that make life in the Universe possible, and their fascinating journey through the cosmos, with my astrobiology #MoleculeMonday series.
#MoleculeMonday
Each week, on Mondays, I highlight a molecule that is important for astrobiology – to help you get your child excited about chemistry. I’m collating all the posts here with extra details and activities and will update it periodically.
Do you have a favourite molecule? Leave a comment and let me know – if it’s important for life in the Universe I’ll add it to my list of #MoleculeMonday posts!
Marvellous molecules
You might not give molecules much thought in your day-to-day life, but without atoms grouping together to form molecules, you would not exist – and nor would the planet.
- Where did these molecules come from?
- What do they do?
- Why are they important?
Here are all the posts so far, follow the links to jump to your favourite molecule.
#MoleculeMonday 1. Methylidyne
This carbon-hydrogen molecule is the first step towards all carbon chemistry, which is what all life on Earth is based on. But it doesn’t exist for long on Earth (it is highly reactive).
CH is found in the clouds of interstellar dust and gas. It forms there when ultraviolet light from massive hot young stars heats up carbon (formed inside stars) and hydrogen (formed in the big bang) enough that they react.
It was the first molecule discovered in interstellar space (in 1937).
#MoleculeMonday 2. Glycolaldehyde
This molecule may have been a precursor to the molecules required for the origin of life, and was likely delivered in large quantities to the surface of Earth by comets billions of years ago.
Something to think about if you are lucky enough to see comet C/2020 F3 (NEOWISE) passing by Earth this year.
#MoleculeMonday 3. Water
This molecule is one that you depend on every day: it’s of the three main requirements for life as we know it.
Related post: what does it mean for a world to be habitable?
#MoleculeMonday 4. DNA
This molecule holds the blueprint for all life on Earth. It is truly amazing.
Related posts:
- What is DNA and why is it so amazing?
- How to extract DNA from an apple
- Build a DNA model with pipe cleaners
For more DNA learning fun, try my free printable DNA activity pack with puzzles, worksheets and colouring pages for kids.
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#MoleculeMonday 5. Oxygen
This molecule is created by life and supports the largest ecosystem on Earth. You cannot survive without it and nor can any other animal.
Free activity packs
To supplement my posts I create themed printable activity packs with puzzles, worksheets, quizzes and colouring pages. Sign up to my mailing list to get your free copies.
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Related posts
- Use playdough to learn how atoms are made
- Learn more about DNA with my DNA for kids series
- Find out what makes a planet habitable
- Learn 10 facts about Mars