Mathematics – Logic
Scientific paper
Oct 1977
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1977natur.269..583g&link_type=abstract
Nature, Volume 269, Issue 5629, pp. 583-584 (1977).
Mathematics
Logic
8
Scientific paper
As long as entropy ceases to play any part in equilibria when the temperature approaches absolute zero, all exothermic reactions-up to the formation of the most complex biopolymers-become thermodynamically profitable. In such conditions the reaction rate starts to play a decisive part in the observability of chemical transformations. According to classical views (Arrhenius law) all reactions should completely stop when T-->0 and therefore the cold synthesis of biologically active substances is absolutely excluded. The phenomenon of a low-temperature limit to chemical reaction rates found recently, however, in the studies of radiation-induced polymerisation of formaldehyde1-3, showing the existence of chemical reactivity even at T-->0, obviously caused by quantum-mechanical molecular tunnelling, makes it possible to combine complete suppression of the entropy term in equilibria with an observable rate of exothermic chemical reactions, for example, of chain polymerisation (or any other integration of molecules) induced by light or ionising radiation. Thus molecular tunnelling suggests the possibility of a cold pre-history of life1-3.
No associations
LandOfFree
Interstellar grains as possible cold seeds of life does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Interstellar grains as possible cold seeds of life, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Interstellar grains as possible cold seeds of life will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-747013