Natural Philosophy of Protoplanetary and Planetary Discs: On the Origin and Evolution of Life
Abstract
This paper examines the four pivotal and most contentious issues within the field of biogenesis by analyzing the life-originating processes centred on
protoplanetary and planetary discs. These include: 1. Geological environment; 2. Source of nutrients/initial molecules; 3. Source of energy; 4. RNA world
versus metabolic world: which came first? To date, scientists have been unable to reach a consensus on these questions. Regarding geological environment,
the distinct conditions within the inner, middle, snow line, and outer regions of the protoplanetary disc—including solar, cosmic, and isotopic radiation—
along with the exchange of dust and gases between these zones, provided an exceptional reaction platform for prebiotic chemistry. Concerning the origin
of life’s food/precursor molecules, the protoplanetary disc—the stellar gas and dust disc formed during star formation—served as a crucial transitional stage
linking interstellar matter to life’s chemical potential. Transition metals, short- and long-lived radioactive isotopes, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs),
fullerenes, and the metal-organic compounds formed from these substances play a crucial role in life’s composition. Analysis of meteorites reinforces the
credibility of the protoplanetary and planetary discs as potential sites for the origin of life. Quantum mechanics may significantly influence the possibility
of life emerging within protoplanetary discs. Regarding energy sources, the energy required for the…
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