Abstract An attempt is made to show that the phenomenon of chirality—of which optical activity is but one consequence—is by no means restricted to life on Earth, but is common throughout the universe. Several independent sources have been investigated including: statistical fluctuations; stereoselective physical factors; and energetic differences between enantiomeric molecules. It is emphasised that a search for chirality as an indicator for life elsewhere in space provides an excellent tool for the fascinating question of exobiology. Still one must be aware of the limitations of the experimental methods and their interpretations.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Life and chirality beyond the earth


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Origins of life ; 6 , 4 ; 475-481


    Publication date :

    1975




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English



    Classification :

    BKL:    44.71 Verkehrsmedizin
    Local classification TIB:    535/3908/4290



    Life Sciences Experiments Beyond Low Earth Orbit

    Schaefer, R. L. / Rudolph-Angelich, I. L. / Mains, R. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2004


    Life Sciences Experiments Beyond Low Earth Orbit

    Hughes, Darren / Leonard, Gregory / Schmidt, Gregory K. et al. | SAE Technical Papers | 2004


    Chirality and the origin of life

    Bailey, Jeremy | Online Contents | 2000


    Chirality and the origin of life

    Bailey, J. / International Academy of Astronautics | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2000


    Chirality and the Origin of Life

    Bailey, J. / International Astronomical Federation | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1998