What is the habitable zone?

What is the habitable zone?

The habitable zone, often called the 'Goldilocks Zone,' is the region around a star where conditions might be just right for liquid water to exist on a planet's surface.

Why is liquid water important for habitability?

Liquid water is essential for life as we know it. It acts as a solvent for biochemical reactions and is crucial for the survival of organisms.

Can you give examples of planets in the habitable zone?

Sure! Earth is the most well-known example. Other candidates include Mars and some exoplanets like Proxima Centauri b.

What factors affect the habitable zone?

Several factors influence the habitable zone, including the star's brightness, the planet's atmosphere, and its distance from the star.

How do scientists find exoplanets in the habitable zone?

Scientists use methods like the transit method, where they observe the dimming of a star as a planet passes in front of it, and radial velocity measurements.