This ability could be supported by hygroscopic salts—chemical compounds that can absorb water from the air, much like salts that draw moisture in Earth's most arid environments, such as Chile ...

These salts can be so hygroscopic that it can lead to deliquescence and the production of saturated sodium chloride brines, in which many of these organisms grow and reproduce. Ironically ...

Another important aspect of this research is the exploration of the salting-in effect, which enhances the performance of hygroscopic salt-hydrogel composites. This effect allows for better water ...

Schulze-Makuch suggests that potential Martian microbes may have adapted to hyperacid conditions by relying on hygroscopic salts—compounds that absorb moisture from the atmosphere—similar to ...