Microbes Might Survive on Mars | SciShow News

The video discusses the exploration of Mars by a rover and the potential for microbial life on the planet. It compares the harsh conditions of Mars to Earth, highlighting the challenges for microbial survival. Experiments using a 'Mars box' simulate these conditions, showing some microbes can survive. The video also explores the potential of using microbes to produce resources like food and oxygen on Mars, despite challenges like low pressure. A bioreactor, Atmos, is introduced as a solution for growing cyanobacteria on Mars, opening possibilities for sustainable life support systems.

What is one reason why Earth microbes might survive on Mars?

• Mars has a warm climate.

• Mars has a high level of oxygen.

• Microbes are inherently resilient.

• Mars has a thick atmosphere like Earth.

What was the purpose of the 'Mars box' experiment?

• To test human survival on Mars.

• To test the effects of Mars' gravity on plants.

• To simulate Mars-like conditions for microbial survival.

• To measure the temperature on Mars.

Why is microbial contamination a concern for Mars missions?

• It could interfere with scientific experiments.

• It could make Mars uninhabitable.

• It could increase the temperature on Mars.

• It could cause Mars to lose its atmosphere.

What is a potential benefit of using cyanobacteria on Mars?

• They can increase Mars' gravity.

• They can create a thick atmosphere.

• They can generate electricity.

• They can produce oxygen and act as a protein source.

What is a challenge of growing cyanobacteria on Mars?

• Mars has low atmospheric pressure.

• Mars has a high atmospheric pressure.

• Mars has too much sunlight.

• Mars has abundant liquid water.

What is the Atmos bioreactor designed to do?

• Generate electricity from Martian soil.

• Simulate Earth's gravity on Mars.

• Create a high-pressure environment for cyanobacteria.

• Simulate low-pressure conditions for microbial growth.

What is the significance of the Atmos bioreactor's design?

• It is designed to be very heavy.

• It requires constant support from Earth.

• It can only work in Earth's atmosphere.

• It is lightweight and uses Mars' resources.