Astrobiology for a General Reader II

Surprising sudden advances in Artificial Intelligence will affect various sub-fields of Astrobiology in the near future, but perhaps most exciting of all has been the success of sample return missions from two asteroids whose organic molecules include building blocks of life, plus the discovery of samples on Mars with "reduction spots" whose chemistries are potential biosignatures of past life on the red planet.In this book, the authors have implemented several outstanding features which are helpful to the general reader. The organization of the book is in the format of Questions and Answers (Q&A), an approach unique in the field of Astrobiology. Consequently, it is engaging and easy to follow. The Q&As are linked in a conversation-like style, with each new question following from the previous answer, which aids the learning process. The book is organized into 18 chapters of broad and comprehensive topics, with over 200 questions answered.While the book is written for general readers who are assumed to have an interest in science, but not necessarily with an extensive background, it will also be helpful to the beginner student and those who wish to pursue further one or more aspects of the field. It provides the reader with a comprehensive set of further readings.