Expert: Walter Hintz - 8/25/2007

Question
One theory has always stated that silicon lifeforms could exist just as often as carbon-based lifeforms, since silicon has as many potential combinations with other molecules as carbon. What is your view re this theory?

Also, what is your view re the theory of parallel evolution? This idea suggests that what happens on one planet(ie Earth) would also happen on other planets, with life present - what arethe chances, in your view, of humans developing independently on another planet, in an almost identical way?

Thanks
Geoff

Answer
Hi geoff
It is my opinion that the physical,chemical and mathematical Laws of the universe are fixed and unchangeable and therefore evolution will take the same pathways with respect to organic (carbon containing) compounds. It makes no sense that chemistry would be different in other parts of the universe.  The odds tell us that life will appear on other planets.  Similar to us? Possibly but with variations.  Differences in gravity for example could bring different body shapes