Energy requirements of a biosphereThe question is considered of whether a biosphere similar to that on earth could exist in the region of the outer planets, where relatively little light is available for photosynthetic processes. The type of photosynthesis most abundant on earth is discussed along with light conversion in photosynthesis, the light-harvesting system in plants, photosynthetic efficiency, and carbon production in nature. The dynamic range of metabolic rates is examined, and photosynthesis in anaerobic organisms is described. It is suggested that organisms having very large photosynthetic pigment units would thrive in the light intensities prevailing on Titan and that the surface of Titan might well be able to maintain a biosphere driven by oxygen-generating photosynthesis.
Document ID
19770043816
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Other - Collected Works
Authors
Kok, B. (Martin Marietta Labs. Baltimore, MD, United States)
Radmer, R. (Martin Marietta Laboratories Baltimore, Md., United States)