This chapter will introduce
chemistry, organic chemistry, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics. The goal is to make
sure that all readers understand how and why chemicals react with each other, and how and
why the laws of thermodynamics influence these reactions.
The key concept of entropy will be introduced in this chapter. Entropy
is often defined as disorder, but this definition is both misleading and incorrect.
In classical thermodynamics, entropy is a mysterious concept. Entropy
is difficult to define without considering quantum mechanics and micro-states. While these
last two topics are usually only found in advanced chemistry and physics textbooks, they
are absolutely necessary to understand entropy. Entropy is not a difficult concept. It is
simply a measure of uncertainty that must always increase with time.
Entropy makes it very difficult for a self replicating molecule to
exist because self replication decreases entropy. Life has many ways around this problem.
The most common solution involves tapping plentiful energy sources to drive replication
(chapter 7). Simple self replicating molecules cannot do this.
next: chemicals and atoms
home: The Origin and Evolution of Life
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