Why do scientists assume that without liquid water, a planet cannot have life? Why can’t aliens function off a different substance, why must it be water?
More about likelihood, then absolutes. Of course a planet without liquid water could sustain life, but in our experience, only planets that have life, to our knowledge, are those with liquid water, to which life is dependant.
The Short Answer
More about likelihood, then absolutes. Of course a planet without liquid water could sustain life, but in our experience, only planets that have life, to our knowledge, are those with liquid water, to which life is dependant.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Life, liquid, water
This explanation focuses on life, liquid, water and spans 37 words across 2 sentences. At 43% below the average Everyday Life explanation (65 words), the answer takes a direct, no-frills approach — sometimes the simplest explanation is the most effective.
What This Answer Covers
This is a focused, single-point answer that gets directly to the core of the question without detours.
How This Compares in Everyday Life
Ranked #356 of 500 Everyday Life questions by answer depth (top 72%). This is in the concise tier — a focused explanation that prioritizes clarity over exhaustiveness. Many readers prefer this level of directness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why scientists assume that without liquid water, a planet cannot have life? why can't aliens function off a different substance, why must it be water?
More about likelihood, then absolutes. Of course a planet without liquid water could sustain life, but in our experience, only planets that have life, to our knowledge, are those with liquid water, to which life is dependant.
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Everyday Life questions?
This is a focused answer at 37 words, ranked #356 of 500 Everyday Life questions by depth. The key concepts covered are life, liquid, water.
What approach does this answer take to explain scientists assume that without liquid water, a planet cannot?
The explanation uses contrasting perspectives across 37 words. It is categorized under Everyday Life and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.