Researchers have identified a specific range of oxygen concentrations in the atmosphere that reliably indicates civilization’s potential technological progress. Although high levels of oxygen are not necessary for the emergence of biological life on distant planets, it is vital for the development of a technologically advanced society.

It turns out everything is quite simple

This level of concentration is called “oxygen bottleneck”It is very important for fuel combustion reactions. In a delicate balance, there must be enough oxygen to support oxidation reactions for combustion, but not so much that it leads to wildfires.

Drawing parallels with Earth’s history, the researchers noted that technological progress on our planet began to flourish when the oxygen concentration in the atmosphere reached 18% or higher. According to them, this milestone should be taken into account when analyzing the atmospheres of exoplanets.

Even if other vital elements such as water are abundant, oxygen level becomes the main sign In search of intelligent and technologically advanced life.

Scientists conclude that they must be very careful in their research and interpretation of possible discoveries. In other words, the potential technological signatures of a planet with insufficient oxygen in its atmosphere should be approached with skepticism.