In the article "Martian Metropolis" by Leonard David, the section "smaller is better" discusses the challenges of transporting large habitats to Mars and proposes a solution in the form of smaller, modular habitats. The author uses a problem-solution structure to present this information.
First, the problem is introduced: the difficulty of transporting large habitats to Mars due to the cost and risk involved. Then, the author presents a solution to this problem: using smaller, modular habitats that can be transported more easily and assembled on the Martian surface. The benefits of this solution are discussed, such as lower cost, greater flexibility, and the ability to expand the habitat as needed.
The author then goes on to provide specific examples and details of this modular habitat approach, such as the Mars Ice Home concept developed by NASA and the Mars Homestead Project proposed by Robert Zubrin. The section ends with a brief discussion of the potential for using 3D printing technology to manufacture the habitats on Mars itself.
Overall, the problem-solution structure used in this section effectively presents the challenges and proposed solutions for habitat construction on Mars, providing readers with a clear and organized understanding of the issues at hand.