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1 results

  • 11 - ‘Exotic’ Life

  • from Part IV - Astrobiological Targets
  • Manasvi Lingam, Florida Institute of Technology, Amedeo Balbi, Università degli Studi di Roma 'Tor Vergata'
  • Book:
    From Stars to Life
    Published online:
    22 November 2024
    Print publication:
    05 December 2024, pp 246-265

  • Summary

    Life-as-we-know-it harnesses carbon for the scaffolding in biomolecules and liquid water as the solvent. This chapter delineates the beneficial properties of carbon and water, and then investigates whether viable alternatives to this duo exist (i.e., ‘exotic’ life). With regard to the latter, the likes of ammonia, sulfuric acid, and liquid hydrocarbons are expected to have some physical and/or chemical advantages relative to water, while also exhibiting certain downsides. In contrast, it is suggested that few options appear feasible aside from carbon, with silicon representing a partial exception. The chapter subsequently delves into the habitability of the clouds of Venus and the lakes of Titan, because the alternative solvents sulfuric acid and liquid hydrocarbons (methane and ethane) are, respectively, documented therein. Both these environments might be conducive to hosting exotic life, but it is cautioned that they are likely subjected to severe challenges.