title: Molecules, water, and radiant energy: new clues for the origin of life.
abstract: We here examine the putative first step in the origin of life: the coalescence of dispersed molecules into a more condensed, organized state. Fresh evidence implies that the driving energy for this coalescence may come in a manner more direct than previously thought. The sun's radiant energy separates charge in water, and this free charge demonstrably induces condensation. This condensation mechanism puts water as a central protagonist in life rather than as an incidental participant, and thereby helps explain why life requires water.
authors.affiliation: Department of Bioengineering, Box 355061, University of Washington, Seattle WA, 98195, USA.
authors.forename: Gerald H
authors.initials: GH
authors.lastname: Pollack
authors.affiliation: Department of Bioengineering, Box 355061, University of Washington, Seattle WA, 98195, USA.
authors.forename: Xavier
authors.initials: X
authors.lastname: Figueroa
authors.affiliation: Department of Bioengineering, Box 355061, University of Washington, Seattle WA, 98195, USA.
authors.forename: Qing
authors.initials: Q
authors.lastname: Zhao
mesh_terms: D005782:Gels / Q000737:chemistry; D000069497:Origin of Life; D011522:Protons; D012993:Solar Energy; D013472:Sunlight; D014867:Water / Q000737:chemistry*
chemical_list: D005782:Gels; D011522:Protons; D014867:Water