An extremophile bacterium in a simulated Martian environment doubles its population every 1.5 hours. If scientists start with 150 bacteria, how many will there be after 9 hours?

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:35:44 +0000

**How an Extremophile Microorganism Thrives in Simulated Mars Conditions—and What It Reveals About Life’s Limits** In a world where space exploration fuels both science and imagination, a remarkable microbe named an extremophile bacterium is captivating researchers. Designed to survive in harsh, Mars-like environments, this organism continuously doubles in population every 1.5 hours. When scientists begin with 150 cells, how many will exist after 9 hours? This question isn’t just academic—it reflects growing curiosity about life beyond Earth and the resilience science is uncovering in extreme conditions. Simulated Martian environments, meticulously recreated in labs, offer critical insights into whether life could endure—or even flourish—on the red planet. For modern audiences in the U.S. intrigued by space biology, sustainability research, and future exploration, this bacterium’s rapid growth holds scientific and cultural relevance. ---