By Aahil
November 18, 2022
Astronomers investigated the Earth-like planet TRAPPIST-1e to establish a framework for determining if planets outside the solar system may harbor life or be inhabited.
All of these extrasolar planets are considered to be rocky or terrestrial worlds similar to Earth, making the TRAPPIST-1 system a main priority for the search for life.
The planet is situated in the "habitable zone," an area where temperatures are suitable for the existence of liquid water.
The scientists compared TRAPPIST-1e to Earth to see how its temperature responds to increases in greenhouse gasses, particularly carbon dioxide.
Hochman and colleagues found that TRAPPIST-1 e's atmosphere is more sensitive to greenhouse gasses than Earth's.
A boost in greenhouse gasses in TRAPPIST-1 e's atmosphere could cause more extreme climate changes than on Earth.
One side of the exoplanet permanently faces the star, and this 'dayside' is constantly bombarded with radiation, unlike Earth, which orbits the sun.
Hochman and his team think studying an Earth-like exoplanet like TRAPPIST-1e could help us understand climate change on Earth.
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