If life could arise from non life billions of yrs ago could that happen today?

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In summary, the possibility of life arising from non-life today is uncertain. While it may be possible on Earth, any self-similar replicating organic compounds would need protective mechanisms to survive.
  • #1
alliereid
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Homework Statement



Could life arise from non life today? Why?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I know that it's not possible today but I'm not sure why?
 
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  • #2
Where?
 
  • #3
Borek is asking where life could arise--as on Earth or otherwise. If some tasty self-similar replicating organic compounds arose on Earth, they would be easily digested if they didn't come pre-equipped with some protective mechanisms.
 
  • #4
alliereid said:

Homework Statement



Could life arise from non life today? Why?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I know that it's not possible today but I'm not sure why?
HOW do you "know that it's not possible today"? I liked your post better when you were asking if it was possible rather than simply asserting that it is not!
 

1. How did life arise from non-life billions of years ago?

There are several theories about how life may have arisen from non-life, including the primordial soup theory and the RNA world hypothesis. These theories suggest that early Earth had the necessary conditions, such as a reducing atmosphere and a supply of organic molecules, for the formation of simple life forms.

2. Is it possible for life to arise from non-life today?

The scientific consensus is that the conditions on modern Earth are not conducive for life to spontaneously arise from non-life. The Earth's atmosphere is now oxygen-rich, which would prevent the formation of organic molecules necessary for life. Additionally, the presence of existing life forms would likely consume any potential building blocks for new life.

3. Could extraterrestrial life have arisen from non-life?

There is no conclusive evidence to support the idea that life has arisen from non-life on other planets. However, some scientists believe that the conditions on other planets or moons in our solar system, such as Mars or Europa, may have been more suitable for the origin of life. Further exploration and research is needed to confirm this possibility.

4. Can we recreate the conditions for life to arise from non-life in a laboratory?

Scientists have attempted to recreate the conditions of early Earth in laboratory settings, but have not yet been successful in creating life from non-life. While we have a better understanding of the necessary ingredients for life, there are still many unknowns and it may not be possible to fully recreate the exact conditions of early Earth.

5. How does the origin of life impact our understanding of evolution?

The origin of life is a separate concept from the theory of evolution. While the origin of life explains how living organisms came to exist, evolution explains how these organisms have changed and diversified over time. However, understanding the origins of life can provide insights into the mechanisms of evolution and the potential for life to arise on other planets.

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