Prebiotic Photochemistry: From Urey-Miller-like Experiments to Recent Findings

Photochemistry plays a crucial role in studying the origin of life and prebiotic chemistry by simulating the conditions on the early Earth and producing complex organic compounds.

Format: Hardback
Length: 308 pages
Publication date: 11 June 2021
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry

Photochemistry plays a crucial role in unraveling the mysteries of the origin of life and prebiotic chemistry. Solar photons, as the sole source of immense energy, hold the potential to kickstart the process of organizing matter, paving the way for the emergence of biological life. The groundbreaking Miller–Urey experiment mimicked the conditions believed to have existed on the early Earth, providing strong evidence for the synthesis of complex organic compounds from simpler inorganic precursors. This experiment sparked a wave of inspiration, leading to the production of various alcohols, aldehydes, and organic acids through the UV-photolysis of water vapor in the presence of carbon monoxide.

This comprehensive book delves into the photochemical aspects of studying prebiotic and origin of life chemistry, serving as an invaluable resource for postgraduates and researchers in prebiotic chemistry, photochemistry, photobiology, chemical biology, and astrochemistry. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the mechanisms and processes involved in photochemical reactions, providing a deep understanding of the chemical foundations of life.

The book begins by introducing the fundamental principles of photochemistry, including light-matter interactions, energy transfer, and photochemical reactions. It then delves into the specific applications of photochemistry in prebiotic chemistry, such as the synthesis of organic compounds, the formation of biomolecules, and the investigation of the early Earth's atmosphere.

Chapter 2 explores the role of solar photons in initiating the organization of matter and the synthesis of organic compounds. It discusses the energy requirements for these processes and the mechanisms by which solar radiation can drive chemical reactions. The chapter also highlights the importance of UV-photolysis in the production of organic compounds and the role of catalysts in enhancing these reactions.

Chapter 3 examines the formation of biomolecules through photochemical reactions. It discusses the synthesis of amino acids, nucleotides, and lipids, as well as the mechanisms involved in their assembly. The chapter also explores the role of photochemical reactions in the formation of complex structures such as proteins, carbohydrates, and DNA.

Chapter 4 explores the investigation of the early Earth's atmosphere through photochemical reactions. It discusses the formation of gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, as well as the role of photochemical processes in the evolution of the atmosphere. The chapter also explores the potential for life to have originated in the early Earth's atmosphere and the conditions necessary for its emergence.

Chapter 5 discusses the applications of photochemistry in astrochemistry. It discusses the formation of molecules in space, such as organic compounds, amino acids, and nucleotides, and the role of photochemical reactions in the formation of stars and galaxies. The chapter also explores the potential for life to exist in other celestial bodies and the methods used to detect it.

In conclusion, Photochemistry is a vital field that sheds light on the origins of life and prebiotic chemistry. By harnessing the power of solar photons, scientists can unlock the secrets of the chemical processes that shaped the early Earth and the universe. This comprehensive book provides a comprehensive exploration of the photochemical aspects of prebiotic and origin of life chemistry, making it an essential resource for postgraduates, researchers, and enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 648g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839161773