Posted by Jason on December 30, 1996 at 15:58:42:
In Reply to: Lars, and any other bioscientists.... A question posted by Tyler on December 30, 1996 at 08:19:09:
: I was in a discussion with a few other people about life and the universe the other day. Someone brought up the idea of silicon-based life, an idea that I'm familiar with but cannot discuss it with any depth. I need help and insight with this. It seems to me that there are molecular-level problems with oxygen respiration. HELP!
I don't know too much about this area either (I have more of an earth science
than bio-science background). However, in the book, "The Great Unsolved Mysteries
of Science" it claims that some biochemists built some elaborate chemical
blueprints for life that could be based on other elements (no references were
given). Silicon can form complex molecular chains like carbon can, but they're
not as stable. Perhaps evolution would select against a silicon based creature.
On the fun side, silicon based life can be found in science fiction. In the
orginal Star Trek, Cpt. Kirk and Mr. Spock are up against a lasagna shaped
creature that is silicon based. In Babylon 5, the Vorlons are silicon based
aliens as well.
- Jason