A space mission plans to grow algae in a bioreactor on Mars. The algae mass doubles every 2 days. Starting with 0.5 kg, how many kilograms will be present after 14 days?

Sun, 03 May 2026 18:13:19 +0000

**Writing the Article:** **1. Intro (Discover Hook)**
As space missions advance toward long-term survival on Mars, a quietly transformative innovation is gaining attention: algae grown in bioreactors. The ability to convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and minimal water into protein-rich biomass offers hope for sustainable life support systems. With the algae mass doubling every two days, starting from just half a kilogram, a simple mathematical rhythm lays the foundation for what could be a cornerstone of Martian colonization. This isn’t science fiction—it’s science. The question on growing minds today: starting with 0.5 kg, how many kilograms will grow in 14 days? **2. Why A space mission plans to grow algae in a bioreactor on Mars. The algae mass doubles every 2 days. Starting with 0.5 kg, how many kilograms will be present after 14 days? Is Gaining Attention in the US**
Rising interest in closed-loop life support systems stems from urgent needs of extended Martian habitats: reducing reliance on Earth-based resupply, enhancing oxygen production, and recycling carbon. Algae’s rapid growth—doubling every two days—makes it a logical candidate for bioreactors in confined Martian modules. NASA and international space agencies see this not just as a logistical tool, but as a model for sustainable food and air regeneration. The numbers unfold clearly: doubling every two days for seven cycles reduces the jump from 0.5 kg to 64 kg over 14 days—a powerful example of exponential growth in controlled environments. This trend aligns with growing investments in biotech research for space exploration across the US and beyond. **3. How A space mission plans to grow algae in a bioreactor on Mars. The algae mass doubles every 2 days. Starting with 0.5 kg, how many kilograms will be present after 14 days? Actually Works**
This growth pattern follows a basic exponential formula: final mass = initial mass × 2^(days / doubling period). With 14 days and a 2-day doubling cycle, the exponent is 7. Starting at 0.5 kg, the calculation becomes: 0.5 × 2⁷ = 0.5 × 128 = 64 kg. The bioreactor environment provides ideal light, nutrients, and CO