A missing piece of Earth's evolutionary timeline may have been found. Using computational modeling, a team of scientists explored how working backwards from modern biochemistry could help map out how simple, non-living chemicals present on early Earth gave rise to complex molecules that led to the emergence of life as we know it.
Researchers believe modern metabolism — the life-sustaining biochemical processes that occur within living beings — evolved from the primitive geochemical environment of ancient Earth, drawing on available materials and energy sources. While an interesting idea, however, evidence for the transition from primitive geochemistry to modern biochemistry is still missing.
