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Cultivating Mars: A Project-Based Learning Lab Analyzing an Oxygen Based Redox Reaction in Order to Design an
Jared M Ashcroft1, Ashley Min1, Isabel Bojanini1
1Division of Natural Science, Pasadena City College, Pasadena, USA.
Journal of Laboratory Chemical Education
|February 24, 2022
Summary
Students explore oxygen production and reactivity in biological and chemical systems to design a Mars habitat oxygen generator. Remote Scanning Electron Microscopy aids analysis of iron oxide formation, enhancing scientific understanding.
Area of Science:
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Astrobiology
Background:
- Oxygen production is crucial for human space exploration and sustaining life.
- Understanding chemical and biological systems is key to developing life support technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore oxygen generation and reactivity in diverse systems.
- To design and optimize an oxygen-generating system for Mars colonization.
- To integrate scientific inquiry with a space habitat narrative.
Main Methods:
- A building-block approach to laboratory activities.
- Student-led analysis and system optimization.
- Remote Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with elemental analysis for reaction investigation.
- Focus on iron oxide formation.
Main Results:
- Students gained practical experience in oxygen generation principles.
- Optimization of systems for potential extraterrestrial application.
- Successful investigation of chemical reactions using advanced microscopy.
Conclusions:
- The study demonstrates an effective pedagogical approach to complex scientific concepts.
- The designed oxygen systems show potential for Mars habitat applications.
- Advanced analytical tools like SEM enhance student engagement and scientific depth.
Keywords:
Chemical Reaction AnalysisProject-Based LearningRemotely Accessible Scanning Electron MicroscopeMore Related Videos
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