While direct exposure to high #radiation dose is indeed not favourable for biological activity, ionizing radiation can, and in some cases is known to produce a number of biologically useful products.

One such mechanism is the production of biologically useful products via charged particle-induced #radiolysis.

By combining energy deposition calculations with the energy requirements of microbial cells, it is possible to define the radiolytic #habitable zone for #Mars, #Europa, and #Enceladus, capable of sustaining microbial #metabolism.

Calculations suggest that bacterial cell density could be highest in Enceladus, followed by Mars and Europa.

#life #astrobiology
https://astrobiology.com/2025/07/estimating-the-potential-of-ionizing-radiation-induced-radiolysis-for-microbial-metabolism-on-terrestrial-planets-and-satellites-with-rarefied-atmospheres.html

Cosmic rays could create the #energy needed to support #life underground on #planets and moons in our solar system.

They may not only be harmless in certain environments, but could actually help microscopic life survive.

When cosmic rays hit #water or ice underground, the impact breaks water molecules apart and releases tiny particles called electrons.

Some bacteria on Earth can use these electrons for energy, similar to how plants use sunlight.

This process is called #radiolysis, and it can power life even in dark, cold environments with no sunlight.

#astrobiology
https://phys.org/news/2025-07-life-survive-beneath-surface-mars.html

What are the sources of energy for life on Earth? All life depends on the sun, right? Mostly.... yet life is wildly creative! There's also

#Chemosynthesis - Some cells use energy derived from reactions involving inorganic chemicals.

And also #radiolysis?! Nuclear power as a source of life!?

https://kaiserscience.wordpress.com/biology-the-living-environment/cells/sources-of-energy-for-all-life-on-earth/

@edutooters
@science
@scienceteachers
#science #STEM #NGSS #highschoolteachers #scienceteachers #biologyteachers #biology