Work

Electrochirogenesis: The Possible Role of Low-Energy Spin-Polarized Electrons in Creating Homochirality

Year: 2019

Type: article

Abstract: Electrochirogenesis deals with the induction of chirality by polarized electrons of which those with low energy (<15 eV) are seen to be the most effective. Possible sources of such electrons in the prebiotic universe are discussed and several examples where chiral induction by these electrons have been demonstrated are given. Finally, some possible scenarios where electrochirogenesis could have played a role in forming a chiral imbalance in a prebiotic setting have been speculated on and some possible future areas of research proposed.

Source: Symmetry

DOI: 10.3390/sym11040528

Author: Richard A Rosenberg

Institutions: Argonne National Laboratory, Advanced Photon Source

Language: English

Topic: Origins and Evolution of Life

Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,418

Funders: U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Basic Energy Sciences