The Drake Equation Calculates the Number of Technologically Advanced Civilizations

question 65

Multiple Choice

The Drake equation calculates the number of technologically advanced civilizations in the Galaxy as a product of seven factors: R* f_p n_e f_l f_i f_c L. In the sample calculation in the text, these values are taken as 1 *1 * 0.2 * 1 * 1 * 1 * 500 = 100. Suppose this estimate is too conservative, in that all the factors that can in principle become larger are increased by a factor of ten. What would be the resulting number of technologically advanced civilizations in the Galaxy?

• A) 100
• B) 10⁵
• C) 10⁷
• D) 10⁹

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