A perspective on the role of minerals in prebiotic synthesis

Ambio. 2004 Dec;33(8):539-51. doi: 10.1579/0044-7447-33.8.539.

Abstract

The possible role of minerals in prebiotic chemistry is discussed. Reactions involving the transformation of inorganic forms of the biogenic elements into simple organic molecules are emphasized. Three central issues are presented in detail: i) the types of reactions minerals could possibly have promoted; ii) the availability of minerals with catalytic potential on early Earth; and iii) the available research strategy and methods to evaluate the roles minerals may have played in prebiotic chemistry on early Earth.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis
  • Chemistry, Organic / methods*
  • Ferric Compounds / chemistry
  • Hydroxides / chemistry
  • Ion Exchange
  • Life*
  • Metals / chemistry
  • Minerals / chemistry*
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Photochemistry
  • Silicates / chemistry
  • Sulfides / chemistry

Substances

  • Ferric Compounds
  • Hydroxides
  • Metals
  • Minerals
  • Silicates
  • Sulfides
  • ferric oxide