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We only have a single sample of a life encoding mechanism such as DNA. We can't know if it's one of many possibilities, or the naturally emergent phenomenon fo
by colordrops 5y ago
We only have a single sample of a life encoding mechanism such as DNA. We can't know if it's one of many possibilities, or the naturally emergent phenomenon for life, like stars and quartz crystals that would form the same way anywhere from the same basic components of our physical universe.
- mycall 5y agoSilcon is another possible mechanism similar to DNA. I forget the research on this. EDIT: Found this https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypothetical_types_of_biochemistry https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypothetical_types_of_biochemi...
- colordrops 5y agoSure, I wouldn't be surprised if it's possible, but the chances DNA emerging elsewhere aren't necessarily "unbelievable low".
- peterburkimsher 5y agoThe AI in this computer agrees ;D
- DrScump 5y agoOr this speculation: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Devil_in_the_Dark https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Devil_in_the_Dark
- JumpCrisscross 5y agoSilicon is a post-ferrous element. There may be silicon-based life in the universe. But abundance of carbon and hydrogen, together with the superior stability of hydrocarbons relative to silanes, sort of seals the deal for everything but theoretical edge cases.