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Science on Tap: The Impact of Meteors on the Origin and Early Evolution of Life
March 08, 2010
Dr. Alexandra Krull Davatzes, Assistant Professor of Geology, Temple University
will discuss
“The Impact of Meteors on the Origin and Early Evolution of Life”
Meteorite impacts to the Earth were larger and more frequent early in its history, just when the first life forms on Earth were evolving. What effects did these impacts have? One idea is called impact frustration, where all of the first life forms were killed off in one or more massive extinctions, and life had to start anew. This means that the universal ancestor from which all life on Earth evolved may just be the last common ancestor. Another idea proposes that, rather than killing off life, meteors may have actually helped to seed the planet by panspermia, bringing biological material from another planet, or meteorite impacts may have provided the energy to create biological materials from a primordial soup. Dr. Davatzes will discuss these and other aspects of the critical role of meteorite impacts in defining the early Earth’s environment and habitability.
This month’s Science on Tap is presented by the APS Museum
SCIENCE ON TAP
Eat. Drink. Science.
Who: Everyone you know or don’t yet know
What: Real Scientists. Real Conversations. Real Bar.
Where: National Mechanics, 22 South Third St.
When: The second Monday of every month at 6:00 p.m.
Science on Tap is a monthly science café in Philadelphia for anyone who is interested in getting together with other people to discuss a range of engaging science topics. Held at the landmark National Mechanics Bar and Restaurant (22 South Third Street), a relaxed, convivial bar in Old City, Science on Tap features a brief, informal presentation by a leading scientist or other expert, followed by lively conversation. The goal is to promote enthusiasm for science in a fun, spirited, and accessible way, while also meeting new people.
Science on Tap is the hip hops creation of five of Philly’s most venerable science institutions— the APS Museum, The Academy of Natural Sciences, the Chemical Heritage Foundation, the Mütter Museum of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, and the Wagner Free Institute of Science. Science On Tap will convene on the second Monday of every month and the museums will rotate responsibility for choosing the evening’s star speaker.
Science for what ales you
The science café movement began in Leeds, England in 1998 when a local pub decided to foment a new kind of barroom brawl—a scientific debate. The idea took off as a unique way to advance public understanding of science. Now, there are locations from Maine to California where, for the price of a beer or a glass of wine or a cup of coffee, anyone can discuss scientific ideas with leading experts in their fields and learn about developments that are changing our lives.
