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K2-18 b: JWST Finds Possible Biosignature Gases

18 April 20251 min read
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGYK2-18 b: JWSTFinds PossibleBiosignatureGases18 April 2025safalsetu.com

Why in the news

JWST observations gave the strongest hints yet of possible life beyond the solar system, via gases in the atmosphere of exoplanet K2-18 b.

Key facts

  • Gases: dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and dimethyl disulfide (DMDS).
  • On Earth they typically come from living things, notably marine phytoplankton (algae).
  • A potential biosignature, not proof; more observations needed.

About K2-18 b

  • 8.6 times Earth’s mass and 2.6 times its diameter.
  • Lies in the habitable zone, where liquid water could exist.

About JWST

The largest, most powerful space telescope, working mainly in infrared and launched in 2021, studying early galaxies, stars, planets and exoplanet atmospheres.

Exam angle

  • Terms: biosignature, habitable zone, infrared.

Test yourself

1. Which telescope detected possible biosignature gases in the atmosphere of exoplanet K2-18 b?

JWST detected DMS and DMDS in K2-18 b's atmosphere.

2. Which two gases were identified in the atmosphere of K2-18 b as a possible biosignature?

The gases were dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and dimethyl disulfide (DMDS).

3. On Earth, DMS and DMDS are typically produced by which organisms, as noted in the K2-18 b findings?

They are typically produced by marine phytoplankton (algae).

This topic is part of Daily Current Affairs 18 April 2025 (25 topics).

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