1. Research and explain at least three observations which strongly suggest that dark matter must exist in the Universe.
   
   
   
2. Now do some research on the concept of "Modified Newtonian Dynamics" or MOND. Discuss the basic idea of MOND and state whether or not you think MOND provides a credible alternative to the need for Dark Matter.
   
   

3. a) Explain how the "top-down" scenario for the formation of structure (e.g. galaxies, clusters of galaxies) in the Universe differs from the "bottom-up" scenario.
   
   b) find some images of the Hubble Deep Field or the Hubble Ultra Deep field and argue if what appears in those images better supports the "top-down" scenario or the "bottom-up" scenario.
   
   
   
4. The formation of life on a planetary surface seems to greatly depend on the existence of water. There is a lot of water on the Earth, more than there actually should be. Research and then critically discuss
   
   
   a) why there should be not that much water on the Earth and
   
   b) given that the water exists, how did it most likely get to Earth and when in Earth's history did this likely occur?
   
   
   
5. There is strong speculation that life or the beginnings of life occured else where in our Solar System. Research and summarize the evidence for life elsewhere on these three objects.
   
   
   • Mars
   • Europa
   • Enceladus
   
   
   
6. The "RNA World" is an alternative hypothesis to the orgin of life. Do some research and determine how deep sea hydrothermal vents provides support to the RNA World Theory.