Can organic molecules from space initiate self-sufficient chemical systems?

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In summary, during a recent talk, the speaker discussed how his talks are becoming more effective due to his extensive experience. He also shared some new ideas. During the talk, a question was asked about the formation of organics in space and their impact on Earth. The speaker's response was that this was not required for his research. This answer surprised the listener, who had never considered the concept of organics from space. The speaker argued that it is unlikely for an input of organic molecules from space to result in a self-sufficient chemical system, and instead, it is more important for the system to produce its own components. This allows for a contained environment where products can build up and reach higher concentrations.
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BillTre
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This is very recent.

His talks are becoming more effective (as he does so many).
He also has some new ideas.
 
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I only watched a few minutes, as I'm about to log off, but it looked very interesting and I'll have to watch the rest later. Thanks for posting, Bill!
 
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BillTre said:
This is very recent.

His talks are becoming more effective (as he does so many).
He also has some new ideas.

I watched part early hours.
Someone asked the question about all the organics that form in space and fall to earth. 1:21:30
I was curious about this myself, pre biotic building blocks already there like amino Acids.

I was quite surprised with his answer which 'not required' as far as his research is concerned.
 
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pinball1970 said:
I was quite surprised with his answer which 'not required' as far as his research is concerned.
I have never thought too much about organics from space (or panspermia for that matter).
To me it seems unlikely that an input of organic molecules from space would result in a high enough concentration of the right kind of organic molecules to initiate a self-sufficient chemical system. Lane's "not required" comment side steps those arguments. He makes the argument stronger by saying it makes his hypotheses falsifiable, while adding more "unrelated" variables makes it more difficult to draw conclusions.

I think it is much more important, WRT the long term survival/replication of the self -sufficient chemical system, that the new parts of the system (chemicals and molecules) are produced locally within the structure of the system. In a contained situation, products can be contained (by the hydrophobic membrane enveloping layer) and build up to higher, more significant concentrations.
 
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FAQ: Can organic molecules from space initiate self-sufficient chemical systems?

Can organic molecules from space survive the journey to Earth?

Yes, organic molecules can survive the journey to Earth. Meteorites and comets, which often contain organic compounds, provide a protective environment that shields these molecules from the harsh conditions of space and atmospheric entry.

What types of organic molecules have been found in space?

A variety of organic molecules have been detected in space, including amino acids, nucleobases, sugars, and hydrocarbons. These molecules have been identified in meteorites, comets, and interstellar dust clouds.

How do scientists determine the origin of organic molecules found on Earth?

Scientists use isotopic analysis and molecular composition studies to determine the origin of organic molecules. Isotopic ratios that differ from those typically found on Earth can indicate an extraterrestrial origin. Additionally, the specific types and arrangements of atoms in these molecules can provide clues about their source.

Can these space-derived organic molecules catalyze the formation of life?

While space-derived organic molecules can provide essential building blocks for life, the process of catalyzing the formation of life involves complex chemical reactions and environmental conditions. Research is ongoing to understand how these molecules could contribute to the emergence of self-sustaining chemical systems that could lead to life.

What experiments are being conducted to study the potential of organic molecules from space to initiate life?

Experiments include simulating the conditions of early Earth in laboratory settings to observe how organic molecules interact and form more complex structures. Additionally, space missions like those conducted by NASA's OSIRIS-REx and ESA's Rosetta are analyzing samples from asteroids and comets to study their organic content and potential to contribute to prebiotic chemistry.

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