In principle, the Drake equation should enable us to calculate the exact number of intelligent civilizations capable of interstellar communication in our galaxy right now. However, currently this is not feasible because
A) we do not have precise values for any of the factors in the equation
B) it is impossible for us to ever know the precise values of any of the factors
C) we have precise values for the first three factors, but not the last factor
D) we have a precise values for the first factor, but not for any of the other factors

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Drake equation has several variables, such as the rate of star formation, the fraction of stars that have planets, the number of habitable planets per star system, and the fraction of habitable planets where life actually arises. However, we do not have precise values for any of these variables, making it impossible to accurately calculate the number of intelligent civilizations in our galaxy.

In Principle, the Drake Equation Should Enable Us to Calculate