1
Department of Physics Education, Farhangian University, P.O. Box 14665-889, Tehran, Iran
2
Department of Physics, University of Zanjan, P.O. Box 45195-313, Zanjan, Iran
10.48310/esip.2024.17382.1004
Abstract
In this study, we have developed a framework within Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) for science education, utilizing a STEM approach in combination with the Inquiry-Based Science Education (IBSE) method. The lesson plan is presented in the form of a scientific report, with a focus on investigating the potential signs of life in extraterrestrial environments. A key component of this exploration involves examining cyanide compounds, which, if present, can indicate the possibility of life in a given system.
Our research methodology revolves around the simulation of DNA components—specifically, adenine, cytosine, guanine, and thymine, the fundamental building blocks of life. We simulate these DNA molecules and calculate their infrared (IR) frequency spectra. The resulting frequencies are then used to analyze astronomical data from radio telescopes, such as the Hubble Space Telescope, through astronomical spectroscopy.
The simulation techniques employed in this research are grounded in Density Functional Theory (DFT), which was implemented using the Gaussian software package. This approach allows us to accurately model molecular interactions and predict the spectral signatures of life-supporting compounds in space.
Qasemnazhand, M., Shiehzadeh, F., & Ashrafabadi, A. (2024). Integrating STEAM with Astrobiology: Simulating Molecular Structures to Foster Inquiry-Based Learning in High School Science. Physics Journal | Farhangian University, 1(1), 42-54. doi: 10.48310/esip.2024.17382.1004
MLA
Mohammad Qasemnazhand; Fatemeh Shiehzadeh; Akbar Ashrafabadi. "Integrating STEAM with Astrobiology: Simulating Molecular Structures to Foster Inquiry-Based Learning in High School Science", Physics Journal | Farhangian University, 1, 1, 2024, 42-54. doi: 10.48310/esip.2024.17382.1004
HARVARD
Qasemnazhand, M., Shiehzadeh, F., Ashrafabadi, A. (2024). 'Integrating STEAM with Astrobiology: Simulating Molecular Structures to Foster Inquiry-Based Learning in High School Science', Physics Journal | Farhangian University, 1(1), pp. 42-54. doi: 10.48310/esip.2024.17382.1004
VANCOUVER
Qasemnazhand, M., Shiehzadeh, F., Ashrafabadi, A. Integrating STEAM with Astrobiology: Simulating Molecular Structures to Foster Inquiry-Based Learning in High School Science. Physics Journal | Farhangian University, 2024; 1(1): 42-54. doi: 10.48310/esip.2024.17382.1004
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