What the minimum mass for a habitable exoplanet or moon?

In summary, the conversation discusses the habitability of different types of planets and moons, including super Earths and subEarths. It is theorized that a planet or moon would need at least half the mass of Earth to support a biosystem. The conversation also mentions an exoplanet that is much larger and more massive than Earth, but still shows signs of supporting life due to its high rotational rate. However, it is impossible to know for certain if life exists on this planet. The conversation ends with a humorous comment about trying to communicate with fish.
  • #1
cosmicrock
3
0
So I've read that super Earth's masses 2-10 can be habitable hold thick atmosphere and generate plate tectonics. So I am wondering the absolute minimum mass an exoplanet or moon can be to stay habitable in the liquid H2O zone? I guess these would be called subEarth's.
 
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  • #2
It would probably take a little over 1/2 Earth mass to retain sufficient atmosphere and liquid water to support a biosystem.
 
  • #3
Interesting question, considering the exoplanet 5r7a4br-Xm7 (Xavier-Levinson-7c), while approximately 40 times the diameter of Earth, and estimated to be 20~25 times more massive, shows strong evidence of supporting intelligent life. It's theorized the high rotational rate (approximately 32hr) offsets the strong gravitation enough to provide for what we could call "normal" life processes. Of course this data is being collected from Earth, and there is no way to know for certain if life exists on such a place.
 
  • #4
The second quote concerning the fish is absurd. A fish cannot comprehend anything other than it's search for food. Even if it could comprehend 'water', there would be no way to detect if it were capable of comprehending such, as we have no process to communicate with fish. Therefore, the fish quote is ridiculous, and absurd.
 
  • #5
Smashinz_1885 said:
The second quote concerning the fish is absurd. A fish cannot comprehend anything other than it's search for food. Even if it could comprehend 'water', there would be no way to detect if it were capable of comprehending such, as we have no process to communicate with fish. Therefore, the fish quote is ridiculous, and absurd.

That's his signature, it's in all his posts. Don't take it so seriously!
 
  • #6
I'm still working on my 'glub glub' translation skills.
 

1. What is the definition of a habitable exoplanet or moon?

A habitable exoplanet or moon is a celestial body that has the potential to support life, either through the presence of liquid water or other necessary conditions for life to exist.

2. What is the minimum mass required for a habitable exoplanet or moon?

The minimum mass required for a habitable exoplanet or moon is debated among scientists, but it is generally accepted that it must be at least 0.5 Earth masses. This is because a smaller mass may not be able to retain a thick enough atmosphere to support life.

3. Can a moon be habitable?

Yes, a moon can be habitable if it meets the necessary conditions for life to exist, such as having a solid surface, liquid water, and a stable atmosphere. For example, Jupiter's moon Europa is considered a potential candidate for life due to its subsurface ocean.

4. Are there any known habitable exoplanets or moons?

As of now, there are no confirmed habitable exoplanets or moons. However, there are several potential candidates that are being studied, such as Proxima Centauri b and TRAPPIST-1e.

5. How do scientists determine if an exoplanet or moon is habitable?

Scientists use a variety of methods to determine if an exoplanet or moon is habitable. These include studying the planet's distance from its star, its composition and atmosphere, and the potential for liquid water to exist on its surface. They also look for signs of organic compounds, which could indicate the presence of life.

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